GREENFIELD, IN – A horrific incident unfolded at an intersection near U.S. 52 and County Road 100 West in Hancock County when a man allegedly rear-ended a woman’s vehicle, subsequently attempting to kidnap and assault her, authorities said.
Charged with attempted rape, attempted armed kidnapping, and criminal confinement with a deadly weapon, Jason M. Middleton faces serious allegations following the April 28 encounter. According to a probable cause affidavit, Middleton crashed into the back of the woman’s car as she was stopped at a traffic light.
After the collision, both drivers exited their vehicles. Witnesses reported that Middleton attempted to shift the blame onto the woman, despite appearing culpable. He allegedly shouted at her, questioning his predicament, and she pointed out she had a baby in her vehicle when he crashed.
Following this heated exchange, the woman returned to her car to contact authorities and requested insurance details. Police dispatchers informed her that officers were en route and advised her to notify them if the other driver left.
In a dramatic turn of events, Middleton allegedly brandished a firearm, threatening the woman and her child, demanding she enter his van. A struggle ensued, during which Middleton reportedly tried to force her compliance.
A passerby reportedly witnessed the altercation and heard the woman cry out for her baby. Other motorists, alerted by the commotion, intervened to help her.
Seizing the moment, Middleton fled the scene in his van. However, the quick-thinking victim noted his license plate, leading police to intercept the suspect’s vehicle in a neighboring county. Middleton was discovered attempting to hide in a storage container.
Contradicting the victim’s account, Middleton insisted that it was the woman who produced a gun, prompting his flight out of fear for his safety. Despite this claim, no weapon was found upon his arrest.
Middleton is currently held in Morgan County Jail with a bond set at $500,000. His court hearing is slated for May 21, as the investigation into this violent encounter continues.