Bonifay Man Charged After Road Rage Incident on Highway 331

Authorities say the 33-year-old suspect pointed a gun at other drivers and had an active warrant for unpaid child support.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

A 33-year-old man from Bonifay, Florida has been arrested and charged with multiple felonies after allegedly pointing a handgun at other motorists during a road rage incident on Highway 331 near Sherwood Road. The suspect, Blackie Alvarez, was stopped by deputies and a city marshal, and was found to have a gun on the roof of his SUV as well as two sets of metal knuckles in his pockets. Alvarez faces charges including aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, false imprisonment, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Why it matters

Road rage incidents involving firearms are a growing concern in the region, with Walton County authorities previously urging drivers to avoid engaging with aggressive motorists and instead report any threats or video evidence directly to law enforcement. This case highlights the potential for traffic disputes to escalate into dangerous confrontations.

The details

According to reports, Alvarez was tailgating other vehicles, honking, speeding, and slamming on his brakes to force other cars to stop. Motorists called 911, and deputies and a city marshal quickly intercepted Alvarez's white Ford Explorer. Alvarez then stepped out of the vehicle, pulled a black handgun from his waistband, and placed it on the roof of the SUV. Investigators also found two sets of metal knuckles in his pockets.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon on Highway 331 South near Sherwood Road.
  • Alvarez was arrested and booked into the Walton County Jail following the traffic stop.

The players

Blackie Alvarez

A 33-year-old man from Bonifay, Florida who was arrested and charged with multiple felonies related to the road rage incident.

Walton County Sheriff's Office

The law enforcement agency that responded to the 911 call and arrested Alvarez.

DeFuniak Springs Office of the City Marshal

The law enforcement agency that assisted the Walton County Sheriff's Office in intercepting and detaining Alvarez.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The investigation into Sunday's encounter is ongoing, and deputies have asked anyone with video or additional information to contact the Walton County Sheriff's Office. Alvarez remains in the Walton County Jail while prosecutors prepare formal filings.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing concerns about road rage incidents involving firearms in the region, and the importance of drivers avoiding confrontation and instead reporting any threats or evidence directly to law enforcement.