**Urgent: 71-Year-Old Charged After Road Rage Incident with Firearm**

UPDATE: A 71-year-old man from Monroe, NC was arrested following a shocking road rage incident on U.S. Highway 74 where he brandished a firearm at another driver. The incident unfolded on October 9, 2023, when local authorities apprehended Curtis Ciampo after a concerned citizen alerted the Monroe Police Department about his aggressive behavior.

Witnesses reported that during a traffic jam caused by a previous collision, Ciampo pointed a handgun from his pickup truck at another motorist. The situation escalated quickly, prompting immediate police action. Officers were able to approach and stop Ciampo thanks to the congested traffic, ensuring public safety during the apprehension.

According to the Monroe Police Department, the victim captured cell phone video evidence showing Ciampo holding a handgun in his left hand and tapping it on his vehicle’s door. This footage played a crucial role in the investigation, highlighting the severity of his actions.

Upon stopping Ciampo, officers discovered two handguns without serial numbers in his truck, classified as “ghost guns.” These untraceable firearms are often unregulated and evade traditional gun control measures, raising significant concerns about public safety.

A records check revealed that Ciampo is a former felon, which compounds the seriousness of the charges against him. The Monroe Police Department announced that he is now facing charges of Simple Assault and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, both of which carry severe legal repercussions.

In light of this incident, police officials have issued guidance for drivers to help prevent road rage. They recommend avoiding aggressive drivers, maintaining a safe following distance, and reporting any dangerous behavior by pulling over and contacting authorities. “Patience is crucial in navigating the often-irksome sea of vehicular traffic,” they emphasized.

This incident raises critical questions about road safety and firearm regulations, making it a developing story that demands immediate attention. As authorities continue their investigation, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds and the potential implications for road safety in Monroe and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.