Illinois Man Charged After Road Rage Attack Leaves 73-Year-Old With Dementia Severely Beaten in Oak Lawn
OAK LAWN, ILLINOIS — An Illinois man with a violent criminal history is in custody after police say he brutally assaulted a 73-year-old man with dementia during a road rage incident in the Chicago suburb of Oak Lawn, leaving the elderly victim with serious facial injuries and fearing for his life.
Authorities identified the suspect as D’Angelo Groce, 41, who has been charged with two counts of aggravated battery, according to the Oak Lawn Police Department. The incident occurred in late November at a busy intersection near a gas station.
Traffic Dispute Turns Violent Near Gas Station
Joseph, 73, and his wife Deborah — who asked that their last name not be used — told investigators they were simply trying to merge into a right-turn lane when the confrontation began.
According to reports, a truck suddenly sped out of a nearby gas station, cut them off, and collided with their vehicle. Deborah said the driver, later identified as Groce, accelerated as she attempted to merge.
“When I tried to get over, he sped up and plowed into me,” Deborah said.
Shaken, Deborah exited her car to confront the driver.
“I got out of the car and said, ‘What the hell, dude?’ He didn’t say a word,” she recalled. “He came up to me and pushed me. I went backwards and landed on my elbows. My glasses went flying. I lost my phone on Cicero Avenue.”
Elderly Husband Attacked While Trying to Help
The situation escalated further when Joseph, who was diagnosed with dementia three years ago, stepped out of the vehicle to assist his wife.
Police say Groce then punched Joseph, knocking him violently to the ground.
Deborah described a terrifying moment as her husband struggled to get back up.
“Get up again, mf–er, and I’m going to finish you,” Groce allegedly yelled at the elderly man.
Deborah said she pleaded with the attacker to stop.
“I was crying. I was saying, ‘Stop it. Stop hitting him!’”
Severe Injuries and Lasting Trauma
Joseph suffered extensive injuries, including a broken nose, broken jaw, two broken teeth, and scrapes on both hands, according to the couple. Emergency responders treated him at the scene before he received further medical care.
“I thought he was going to kill him,” Deborah said.
The attack has left the family not only traumatized but also facing significant financial hardship. Deborah said vehicle repairs exceeded $2,000, and medical expenses quickly mounted.
“We have no dental insurance,” she explained. “It’s like $7,000 we had to pay just to get his surgery done.”
She added that watching her husband endure the pain has been devastating.
“He’s going through enough already, and to go through this much pain — it’s just totally unnecessary.”
Witnesses Intervene, Suspect Arrested
Witnesses at the scene called 911, prompting a rapid response from Oak Lawn police. Officers arrested Groce shortly afterward.
Authorities say the victim was left injured, shaken, and terrified, while multiple bystanders provided statements corroborating the couple’s account of the assault.
Suspect’s Violent Criminal History
According to law enforcement records, Groce has a lengthy criminal history, including:
- Burglary conviction (2010)
- Domestic violence conviction (2012)
- Aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated assault with a motor vehicle (2020)
Due to his prior convictions and the severity of the alleged attack, Groce is currently being held in the Cook County Jail without bond, sheriff’s records show.
Court Date Scheduled
Groce is scheduled to make his next court appearance on December 19, where prosecutors are expected to outline the case against him and argue for continued detention.
Police have not indicated whether additional charges could be filed as the investigation continues.
Community Outrage Over Road Rage Violence
The attack has sparked outrage among Oak Lawn residents, particularly given the age and medical condition of the victim. Authorities emphasized that road rage incidents can escalate rapidly, putting innocent drivers and bystanders at serious risk.
As Joseph continues his recovery, his family says the emotional toll has been just as severe as the physical injuries.
The case serves as a stark reminder of how unchecked anger behind the wheel can turn routine traffic situations into life-threatening encounters.
For continued coverage of criminal cases, court proceedings, and public safety incidents across Illinois and the Chicago suburbs, visit ChicagoMusicGuide.com.