73-Year-Old Driver Charged After Hitting Construction Worker in Kentucky ‘Road Rage’ Incident

INDEPENDENCE, KENTUCKY — A 73-year-old man has been charged with assault after police say he intentionally struck a construction worker during a road rage incident in Independence over the weekend.

According to Captain Mike Brock of the Independence Police Department, officers were called to Madison Pike near Wayman Drive on Saturday, October 25, after receiving reports of a worker being hit by a vehicle at a construction site.

Incident Began During Traffic Control at Work Zone

Investigators say the driver, identified as Thomas Hummel, was traveling south on Madison Pike when he encountered a construction worker directing traffic with a stop sign.

The construction worker told officers that Hummel ignored the sign, prompting him to tap Hummel’s truck with the stop sign to get his attention. Hummel then put his vehicle in reverse before driving forward again, striking the worker, police said.

The victim suffered minor injuries to his right arm and leg and was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for treatment.

Driver Arrested and Released on Bond

Following the incident, Hummel was taken into custody and charged with assault. He was booked into the Kenton County Detention Center, according to police.

Officials said Hummel was released from jail on Sunday, October 26, after posting a $10,000 bond.

Capt. Brock described the encounter as “more of a road rage incident” than a traffic misunderstanding.

Authorities Urge Patience Around Work Zones

Police reminded drivers to slow down and stay alert in construction areas, especially when crews are present on the road.

“Road workers face daily risks from distracted or impatient drivers,” one officer said. “Incidents like this highlight how a moment of anger can lead to serious consequences.”

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