Traffic Dispute Turns Dangerous in Bluffton
BLUFFTON – A rush-hour drive took a terrifying turn for one driver on Friday, as a traffic dispute escalated to an alarming incident involving a firearm. According to reports, a Bluffton man now faces several serious charges after he allegedly fired a gun at another vehicle on U.S. 278 during the morning commute. This shocking event unfolded just one day following another gunfire-related incident in Port Royal.
Authorities have identified **Oscar Jimenez-Coronado**, 26, who was arrested and **charged with multiple felonies**, including attempted murder, discharging a firearm into an occupied vehicle, **pointing** and **presenting a firearm**, and illegal gun possession. He also faces charges for drug possession and driving with a suspended license, as indicated by sheriff’s office records.
Road Rage Erupts Into Violence
The chaotic situation began around 7:45 a.m., when deputies were summoned to Hilton Head BMW, located on Fording Island Road. The 28-year-old caller, an employee of the dealership, described a harrowing encounter with Jimenez-Coronado. According to the incident report, the trouble kicked off shortly after he unintentionally cut off Jimenez-Coronado’s **silver Chevy Camaro** about 10 minutes before the drama unfolded.
It wasn’t long before Jimenez-Coronado began to show his displeasure. The dealership employee reported seeing the Camaro flashing its lights and driving closely behind him, creating a tense atmosphere. The confrontation intensified as both vehicles came to a stop at a red light near **Burnt Church Road**. In an alarming turn of events, Jimenez-Coronado exited his Camaro and approached the other driver’s window, demanding he **“pull over”** and **“get out of the car.”** Fortunately, the caller kept his windows rolled up and remained inside his vehicle.
A Firearm Threat
As the situation continued to escalate, the caller spotted Jimenez-Coronado brandishing what appeared to be a **black firearm**. He quickly noted that the pistol’s slide was locked back, which momentarily eased his fear. However, that relief was short-lived. As the caller made a turn into the BMW dealership’s parking lot, he suddenly heard the telltale sound of a gunshot followed by a distinct **“ping”** on the roof of his car.
Sensing imminent danger, he wasted no time in calling 911. Authorities sprang into action, utilizing local traffic cameras to track the movements of Jimenez-Coronado’s Camaro. They were able to locate the vehicle as it approached the **Windmill Harbor intersection**, ultimately leading to Jimenez-Coronado’s apprehension at the scene.
Emphasis on Road Rage Incidents
This incident shines a spotlight on the growing concern of road rage in Beaufort County. With local data indicating at least 10 similar incidents over the course of a year, it’s clear this isn’t an isolated event. Many of these cases involve drivers brandishing weapons, yet a significant number don’t result in arrests, often due to a lack of evidence or mutual unwillingness to pursue charges after confrontations.
As of Wednesday afternoon, Oscar Jimenez-Coronado remained in custody at the Beaufort County Detention Center, where he faces a hefty **$100,000** in surety bonds. With road rage incidents on the rise, community members are being urged to remain vigilant and prioritize safety during their commutes.
The Bluffton community is left shaken but united in the hope that awareness may help prevent such incidents in the future. After all, no driver should fear for their life during what should be an ordinary daily commute.
