The Beaverton Police Department says a 29‑year‑old man pursued another driver through south Beaverton on July 26, at one point driving in reverse for more than a mile. The pursued driver and his wife, fearing the suspect appeared to reach for a weapon, drove directly to the police station where officers arrested the suspect and recovered a black airsoft handgun. The suspect, identified as Arman K. Hastings, was booked on charges of reckless driving and menacing. Dashcam footage of the pursuit was shared online and prompted praise for the couple's decision to seek help.
Oregon Couple Flees Reverse Road-Rage Chase — Drives Straight to Police Station, Suspect Arrested
Image Credit: Beaverton Police Department
A routine morning commute in south Beaverton turned into a frightening road‑rage episode on July 26 when a 29‑year‑old man allegedly pursued another vehicle through traffic and drove in reverse for more than a mile, police say. The pursued driver and his wife, fearing the situation could become violent, drove directly to the Beaverton Police Department where officers detained the suspect without incident.
What Happened
According to the Beaverton Police Department, the incident occurred at about 7:25 a.m. Investigators say the suspect followed the other driver, crossed into oncoming lanes and then continued the pursuit in reverse along residential streets for more than a mile. The victim told officers the suspect repeatedly reached toward his coat in a way that made it appear he was reaching for a firearm.
Arrest And Charges
When both vehicles arrived at the Beaverton Police Department, officers quickly located and detained the suspect, later identified as 29‑year‑old Arman K. Hastings of Beaverton. Police recovered a black airsoft handgun from the man’s jacket pocket. Hastings was booked into the Washington County Jail on charges of reckless driving and menacing.
Dashcam Footage And Public Reaction
Dashcam clips released with the department's report show portions of the pursuit, including the suspect negotiating intersections and backing through neighborhoods. Online viewers praised the pursued couple for driving straight to the police station rather than confronting the suspect. Several commenters said the footage convinced them to install front and rear dash cameras, while others speculated about what sparked the initial confrontation.
Officer Safety Reminder: If you feel threatened by another driver, avoid stopping or confronting the person. Drive to a public, well‑lit place or a police station if possible and call 911.
The Beaverton Police Department continues to investigate the circumstances that led to the confrontation. Booking records and the police report list reckless driving and menacing as the charges filed in connection with the July 26 incident.
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