Demotte Man Charged After Semi Tire Shot During Road-Rage Fight
Timothy Michael Partington, 40, of DeMotte, is accused of forcing a semi tractor-trailer off State Road 10 during a road-rage confrontation and then firing a shot into the truck’s front tire, according to a probable cause affidavit filed in Newton County.
Deputies were dispatched at 7:53 p.m. on December 2, 2025 to the area of State Road 10 and County Road 600 East for a reported road-rage incident.
According to the affidavit, Partington told deputies that a semi sideswiped his vehicle at the stoplight at SR 10 and 600 E. He said he then pursued the truck down the roadway until he was able to pull in front of it and force it to the shoulder.
Investigators wrote that after both vehicles stopped, a brief verbal argument occurred. Tempers escalated, and the confrontation turned into a physical altercation where punches were thrown.
After the fight, Partington returned to his vehicle, retrieved a black Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm handgun, and intentionally discharged a round into the driver-side front tire of the semi tractor.
Deputies wrote that the gunshot placed the involved individuals and passersby in danger and caused intentional damage to the semi’s tire. Partington was taken into custody and transported to the Newton County Jail.
Charges filed December 4,2025:
• Criminal Recklessness w/ Deadly Weapon – Level 6 Felony
• Battery – Class B Misdemeanor
• Criminal Mischief – Class B Misdemeanor
