by WCBC Radio

Maryland state troopers located and arrested an aggressive driver in Washington County this morning after he reportedly struck at least two cars on I-270 and I-70 and then confronted troopers while armed with both a gun and a knife.

The accused is identified as Ted A. MacDonald, 46, of Laytonsville, MD. He is being charged with reckless endangerment, second degree assault, transporting/carrying a concealed weapon and multiple traffic violations. He will be taken for an initial appearance before a court commissioner later today.

Shortly after 10:30 a.m. today, Maryland State Police received numerous calls for a black Ford F-150 pickup that had rammed at least one vehicle on northbound I-270 at the Urbana exit. A lookout was issued for the vehicle and troopers began a search for the truck.

At about 10:50 a.m., more calls were received reporting another car was struck by a black F-150 on westbound I-70 near Frederick. The information was relayed to troopers from the Hagerstown Barrack, who spotted the truck on I-70 near US Rt. 40.

Troopers followed the truck and attempted to stop it prior to I-81. The driver, later identified as MacDonald, stopped the truck and got out, but then immediately jumped back into the truck and fled. Troopers kept the truck in sight as he exited north onto MD Rt. 63, where he drove through several red lights.

MacDonald stopped the truck on Rt. 63 near the intersection of French Lane and immediately got out carrying a loaded handgun. Troopers ordered him to drop the gun and he threw it into the bed of the truck.

MacDonald then pulled a folding knife out of his pocket and taunted troopers with it. After several more orders to drop the knife, the MacDonald dropped it. At that time, troopers approached and attempted to arrest him. MacDonald initially resisted, but was quickly taken into custody. Troopers recovered a .40 caliber handgun and two fully loaded magazines.

MacDonald refused any medical assistance or transport by ambulance for a checkup. No troopers were injured.

There were no reports of injuries for the occupants of either vehicle struck by MacDonald. At this time, troopers are aware of only two vehicles he struck before he was located and arrested.

The investigation is continuing. Additional charges are possible.