ANCHORAGE, AK — A 19-year-old man survived a brutal road rage shooting earlier this month in Anchorage, authorities reported. McKial McCarty was shot multiple times while driving home from work at Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport.
Road Rage Incident
On May 13, McCarty was turning left at an intersection when a light-colored Chevy Equinox, allegedly driven by 24-year-old Joseph Lemalie, cut him off. Lemalie reportedly pulled alongside McCarty, rolled down his window, and fired five shots. McCarty was hit in the lungs, arm, and hip, and his vehicle was totaled.
Victim’s Recovery and Identification
McCarty survived the attack and was hospitalized. During his recovery, he identified Lemalie from a police lineup, telling investigators he was “1,000% sure” of the shooter’s identity. He described the shooting as terrifying, saying he “immediately thought he was dead” as he felt his lungs filling with blood.
McCarty shares a daughter with his girlfriend, who has started a GoFundMe to support him and his family.
Investigation and Arrest
Traffic cameras helped investigators track Lemalie’s vehicle to a residence, where police seized the car and recovered spent 9 mm shell casings. Additional shell casings were found at the shooting scene.
Lemalie was arrested and charged with four counts of assault, misconduct involving weapons, and reckless endangerment. His bond was set at $50,000, and he is currently in custody at the Anchorage Correctional Complex. He is scheduled to appear in court on June 4.
