Iowa road-rage suspect surrenders after police order, video shows

[HTML tags do not have a place in the final revised article. Please do not include them in the text output.] A tense situation unfolded in Des Moines after a car crash involving a firearm, as the police department issued a statement urging caution during traffic crashes. In Des Moines, a dramatic altercation unfolded on Friday when a minor collision escalated after one driver pulled out a handgun. The driver, identified as 43-year-old Bradley Ratkovich, had placed his firearm after being rear-ended at an intersection. As the vehicle behind Ratkovich approached, he retreated to avoid being struck. An attorney for Ratkovich, Kent Balduchi, explained the situation in a statement, saying, "No shots were fired. Mr. Ratkovich did not brandish or draw his firearm until he believed his life was in danger." Balduchi also mentioned that Ratkovich and his minor son were injured in a previous traffic incident, occurring three weeks ago, involving an unlicensed driver and no evidence that their issues were resolved prior to the crash. The police are awaiting a review of traffic camera footage to better understand the circumstances surrounding the incident. The police department cautioned, "Traffic collisions can be stressful, but involving firearms dramatically escalates the risk of violence." The department urged citizens to call 911 when involved in a collision, remain at the scene, and let the responding officers handle the situation safely. Overall, this news article highlights the importance of complying with law enforcement's guidance during such incidents and the potential dangers of bringing firearms into the mix. The article emphasizes the need for caution and cooperation during traffic crashes, and the importance of letting the authorities handle the situation professionally and safely.