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Truckers charged for exchanging gunfire at Nebraska Flying J

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Two truck drivers are reportedly facing charges after a road rage incident developed into a gun fight at a Nebraska truck stop over the weekend.

The incident began on the afternoon of Saturday, March 5, as truck drivers Joseph Morelli, 49, and Michael Whitaker, 51, were westbound on I-80 near Ogallala, according to local outlet KFXL.

According to the report, Whitaker crossed the line of traffic while Morelli was driving behind him.

The two men were then said to have engaged in an argument over the CB radio.

Morelli then allegedly told Whitaker to take the Brule exit to settle the dispute.

Morelli took the exit, but Whitaker did not, continuing to travel west on I-80. However Morelli was able to catch up to Whitaker.

According to the outlet, both truckers exited the interstate at Big Springs and pulled off at a Flying J truck stop.

Then both drivers allegedly exited their trucks armed with handguns and exchanged five to seven shots before returning to their vehicles.

No injuries were reported.

Morelli drove off into the rear of the truck stop while Whitaker walked south of the truck stop and was contacted by the Deuel County Sheriff. The sheriff reported finding a handgun near Whitaker’s feet when he made contact with him.

Both truck drivers were taken into police custody and charged with terroristic threats and use of a firearm to commit a felony.

Morelli’s bond was set at $100,000. He is scheduled to appear in court for a preliminary hearing March 17.

Whitaker has an arraignment scheduled for April 21.

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