M5 'air weapon' road rage investigated

Devon and Cornwall Police said it believed the item was a "ball-bearing-type object fired from an air weapon"

A road rage incident that involved a "projectile" being fired at a car on the M5 is being investigated by police.

Devon and Cornwall Police said it believed the item was a "ball-bearing-type object fired from an air weapon".

The incident happened on the northbound carriageway of the motorway near Cullompton, between junctions 28 and 27, at about 10:10 BST on Wednesday 17 April, police said.

A man, aged in his 30s, from the Exeter area has been arrested on suspicion of possession of an imitation firearm with intent to cause another to fear unlawful violence. He has since been released on police bail while inquiries continue.

Police said the male victim’s car was approached at speed from behind by a silver Mercedes van which undertook the vehicle before cutting in front of it.

The force said it was reported the driver of the van "gesticulated and swore at the victim before later pulling up alongside him".

A projectile was then allegedly fired from the van at the victim’s car, causing damage, police added.

Officers want to speak to motorists who have dashcam footage of the incident.