Man arrested in assault on off-duty officer in Northeast Philadelphia

NORTHEAST PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- A 52-year-old road rage suspect has been arrested after allegedly punching an off-duty officer in the face in Northeast Philadelphia.

The female officer from Lower Makefield says an altercation happened around 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at Welsh and the Boulevard, then they both pulled over and had words.

"She was involved in a road rage dispute with this male. They both exited their vehicle and were talking and that's when, according to this off-duty officer, the 52-year-old male punched her in the face," said Philadelphia Police Chief Insp. Scott Small. "She did have a bruise on her face."

Investigators say the man then jumped back into his car and the off-duty officer chased after him, while calling Philadelphia 911.

They all caught up with the suspect on the 2800 block of Willits Street, where he was taken into custody.

The officer's accurate description is credited for aiding in the quick capture of the suspect.