Upstate NY Man Charged for Drunk Fake Gun Incident on Thruway

Troopers say 51-year-old waved imitation firearm at other drivers on I-90

Mar. 28, 2026 at 1:22pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a non-lethal Byrna SD pistol against a pitch-black background, lit by a harsh, direct camera flash to create a stark, gritty, investigative aesthetic.A recent incident of a drunk driver brandishing an imitation firearm on a major highway has raised serious public safety concerns.Schenectady Today

State Police arrested a 51-year-old Schenectady man on weapons and intoxicated driving charges after he allegedly waved and pointed what appeared to be a handgun at motorists on the New York State Thruway. The investigation revealed the weapon was actually a non-lethal Byrna SD pistol capable of firing kinetic projectiles and pepper balls.

Why it matters

Incidents of drivers brandishing firearms, even imitation weapons, on public roads raise serious public safety concerns and can lead to dangerous escalations. Authorities take these types of reports very seriously, especially when combined with allegations of drunk driving.

The details

James W. Reinardt faces charges of criminal possession of a weapon, menacing, aggravated DWI, and numerous vehicle and traffic violations. Troopers responded to a report of a driver displaying a handgun out of a vehicle window while traveling eastbound on the Thruway around 6:13 p.m. on Wednesday. Police later determined the weapon was a Byrna SD non-lethal pistol, an imitation firearm capable of firing kinetic projectiles and pepper balls.

  • On March 28, 2026, around 6:13 p.m., troopers responded to the reported incident on the I-90 Thruway in Minden.

The players

James W. Reinardt

A 51-year-old man from Schenectady, New York who was arrested and charged with weapons and drunk driving offenses.

New York State Police

Law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and made the arrest.

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What’s next

Reinardt was issued an appearance ticket returnable to Minden Town Court and released. The judge will decide on his bail status at a future court hearing.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the risks and legal consequences of operating a vehicle while intoxicated and threatening others, even with a non-lethal imitation firearm. It serves as a reminder for drivers to exercise caution and responsible behavior on public roads.