Virginia State Police Urge Drivers to Stay Calm Amid Spike in Highway Violence

After a string of highway shootings across Virginia, state police are urging drivers to keep calm and drive responsibly, reminding the public that aggressive driving can escalate quickly — and dangerously.

From January 2023 to October 13, 2025, the Virginia State Police have investigated 236 reported shootings along the Commonwealth’s interstates. While the total number is declining — with 99 shootings in 2023, 86 in 2024, and 51 so far in 2025 — the issue remains serious enough to prompt a public warning.

“Public safety is our top priority and concern,” said Colonel Matthew D. Hanley, Superintendent of the Virginia State Police (VSP). “We ask all motorists to drive defensively in order to protect themselves and others on the roadways.”

While not all recent shootings have been tied to road rage, and no connections between them have been found so far, the VSP believes now is the right time to promote safe driving practices.

Road Rage or Criminal Spillover?

According to VSP investigators, recent incidents along Interstates 64, 81, 85, and 295 are being actively investigated. However, police stress that these events are not believed to be linked — nor is road rage believed to be the cause in every case.

“It is important to reiterate, there is no evidence to show that the shootings are related, and not all are road rage,” said Col. Hanley. “Oftentimes, isolated, criminal activity begins elsewhere and spills onto the highways.”

Still, the department warns that tense or aggressive driving behavior can quickly lead to conflict — and even violence.

A September 2025 study by the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety revealed troubling behavior among American drivers. The survey found that 96% of drivers admitted to aggressive driving over the past year. Even more alarming, 11% confessed to engaging in violent behavior while behind the wheel.

Tips to Avoid Road Rage

In response, VSP has issued a list of tips to help drivers avoid becoming victims — or perpetrators — of road rage:

To stay safe around aggressive drivers:

• Move out of their way and steer clear.
• Stay calm and focused on reaching your destination.
• Avoid eye contact and ignore rude gestures.
• Never block the passing lane if you’re driving slower than traffic.
• Dial #77 on your cell phone to report aggressive drivers to Virginia State Police.

To avoid becoming aggressive yourself:

• Allow others to merge.
• Follow the speed limit and avoid tailgating.
• Don’t try to “teach other drivers a lesson.”
• Focus on driving and put away distractions.
• Remember: you can’t control traffic, but you can control your own emotions.

If you’re confronted or feel threatened while driving, authorities urge you to stay calm, create distance, and call 911 or drive to a public place instead of heading home.

Community Support Needed

While VSP is working with local law enforcement agencies to track down suspects in ongoing investigations, they continue to ask for public assistance.

“If you see something, say something,” said Hanley. “We encourage anyone who witnesses suspicious or criminal activity to report it to law enforcement immediately. The Virginia State Police will vigorously pursue those who commit acts of violence on our highways and our communities.”

Tips and information related to any recent interstate shootings can be sent to questions@vsp.virginia.gov, or called in to one of the following VSP divisions:

• Richmond (Division One): (804) 750-8758
• Chesapeake/Tidewater (Division Five): (804) 750-8788
• Salem/Roanoke (Division Six): (540) 444-7798

A Message for All Drivers

In the end, the Virginia State Police hope their message reaches every driver on the road: Stay calm. Be smart. Drive safe.

“Even one highway shooting is one too many,” Hanley said. “The best way to protect yourself and your family is to avoid confrontations and stay focused on what really matters — getting home safely.”

(Taken from Press Release)