A disturbing incident of road rage escalated into a hate crime in a northwest Sydney suburb, resulting in criminal charges against a 50-year-old man. The alleged assault occurred on Carlingford Road in Epping during the early morning commute on Tuesday, approximately at 6 a.m., according to New South Wales Police reports.
The confrontation began when the suspect, driving a black utility vehicle, abruptly stopped his car in front of another vehicle. Police statements indicate that the man then exited his ute and allegedly performed a Nazi salute—a gesture illegal under NSW laws banning the public display of Nazi symbols without reasonable excuse. Following this offensive gesture, the perpetrator allegedly physically assaulted the 48-year-old driver before fleeing the scene.
After conducting thorough investigations, officers from the Ryde Police Area Command executed an arrest at a residential address on Cockatoo Road in Erskine Park around 10:30 p.m. The suspect was taken into custody and transported to St Mary’s Police Station for processing.
The accused faced Penrith Local Court on Wednesday, charged with two criminal offenses: knowingly displaying a Nazi symbol by public act without excuse, and common assault. The case highlights ongoing concerns about hate-motivated violence and the enforcement of new legislation targeting Nazi symbolism in public spaces. NSW authorities have emphasized their commitment to addressing both road safety violations and hate-based incidents within the community.