Woman Charged After Pepper-Spraying Snowplow Driver in Downtown Baltimore

Incident occurred during snow removal operations, leading to confrontation and assault charges.

Published on Feb. 4, 2026

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A woman was charged with aggravated assault after she pepper-sprayed a snowplow driver in downtown Baltimore on Sunday morning. The incident occurred when the woman became impatient with the slow traffic caused by the snowplow clearing the streets, leading to a confrontation that escalated to the woman deploying pepper spray at the driver.

Why it matters

This incident highlights the tensions that can arise between residents and municipal workers during severe weather events, when snow removal operations can cause temporary disruptions. It also raises concerns about the use of force and the appropriate response to perceived traffic delays.

The details

According to Baltimore police, officers were dispatched to the intersection of East Saratoga Street and North Charles Street just after 8 a.m. on Sunday for a report of an aggravated assault. Upon arrival, they learned that a snowplow driver was clearing snow from the street when a woman exited her vehicle and started arguing with him due to the slow traffic. The woman then went back into her car and as she drove by, she deployed pepper spray out of her window, striking the snowplow driver.

  • The incident occurred on Sunday, February 5, 2026, just after 8 a.m.

The players

Baltimore Police Department

The local law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and charged the woman with aggravated assault.

Brandon Scott

The mayor of Baltimore, who commented on the incident, calling it an example of someone being "impatient about snow removal."

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What they’re saying

“Someone tried to mace a contractor downtown because they were impatient about snow removal.”

— Brandon Scott, Mayor of Baltimore (wbal.com)

What’s next

The woman was issued a criminal summons, and it is unclear if she will face further legal action.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for patience and understanding from residents during severe weather events, when municipal workers are tasked with the important job of clearing roads and ensuring public safety. It also underscores the potential for confrontations to escalate, emphasizing the importance of de-escalation and conflict resolution skills for both residents and public workers.