A young Alaska man is recovering after surviving a terrifying road rage shooting that left him with multiple gunshot wounds. The incident happened while he was driving home from work and has led to serious criminal charges against the alleged shooter.
Alaska Man Survives Road Rage Shooting After Being Shot Five Times
McKial McCarty, 19, was driving home from his job at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport on the night of May 13 when he became involved in a road rage incident that nearly cost him his life.
According to a criminal complaint, McCarty was turning left at an intersection when a light-coloured Chevrolet Equinox, allegedly driven by 24-year-old Joseph Lemalie, suddenly cut him off and nearly caused a collision.
Investigators say the situation quickly escalated after McCarty honked his horn. Lemalie allegedly pulled his vehicle alongside McCarty’s car, rolled down his window, and fired five shots.
Victim Hit by All Five Bullets
A GoFundMe campaign created by McCarty’s mother revealed that all five bullets struck her son.
The shooting reportedly caused severe injuries, including:
- Damage to both lungs
- A broken arm
- Serious injuries to his hip
- Extensive damage to his vehicle, which was declared a total loss
Despite his critical condition, McCarty survived the attack and was rushed to hospital for emergency treatment.
Victim Identifies Suspect From Hospital Bed
As his condition improved, McCarty was able to assist investigators with the case.
According to police documents, he identified Joseph Lemalie from a photo lineup while recovering in hospital. McCarty reportedly told investigators he was “1,000% sure” about the identification.
His statement became a key part of the investigation.
Survivor Recalls Terrifying Moments
After being released from hospital, McCarty spoke about the incident in an interview with local media.
He explained that he was driving in the far-left turn lane when the Chevrolet Equinox suddenly moved in front of him. After he sounded his horn, the other driver allegedly slowed down and positioned the vehicle next to his car.
McCarty claimed that the suspect then rolled down the window and fired multiple shots in rapid succession.
He later told investigators that as soon as he was hit, he felt his lungs filling with blood and believed he was going to die.
Thinking he might not survive, McCarty stopped his vehicle and got out, hoping someone nearby would contact emergency services and inform his family.
Police Track Down Suspect’s Vehicle
Investigators used traffic camera footage to identify the suspect vehicle involved in the shooting.
The Chevrolet Equinox was later located at a residence connected to Lemalie’s family members. During a search, police seized the vehicle and reportedly discovered a spent 9mm shell casing inside.
Authorities also recovered several 9mm shell casings from the scene of the shooting, further supporting the investigation.
Serious Charges Filed Against Suspect
Joseph Lemalie was arrested and charged with several offences, including:
| Charge | Details |
|---|---|
| Assault | Four counts |
| Weapons Misconduct | Involving use of a firearm |
| Reckless Endangerment | Endangering another person’s life |
During a court hearing, a judge set Lemalie’s bond at $50,000.
He is currently being held at the Anchorage Correctional Complex while awaiting further legal proceedings.
Next Court Appearance Scheduled
Lemalie is expected to return to court on June 4 as the case moves forward.
Meanwhile, McCarty continues his recovery with support from his family, girlfriend, and community members who have contributed to fundraising efforts to help cover medical and recovery expenses.
