DEARBORN, MI — John Kreitner, 55, of Westland, has been arrested and charged with aggravated assault after allegedly attacking Judo Whittaker, an 85-year-old man, in a road rage incident at a Kroger parking lot on July 4th, 2025.
The attack, which left Whittaker hospitalized and requiring a hip replacement, was sparked after Kreitner reportedly became enraged when Whittaker pulled out of the parking lot too slowly.
Details of the Incident
According to Whittaker, the confrontation began when he was leaving the parking lot and pulled out in front of Kreitner’s vehicle. Kreitner, angered by the delay, allegedly began beeping his horn and calling Whittaker names.
The 85-year-old recalled Kreitner approaching his car and getting extremely close to his face, to which Whittaker responded, “Man, get your face out of my face.”
The situation quickly escalated when Kreitner allegedly lunged at Whittaker, causing the elderly man to fall to the ground. Whittaker, who later reported feeling immense pain, was transported to a nearby hospital where it was determined he would need a hip replacement due to the severity of his injuries.
“I’m moaning and groaning,” Whittaker recalled from his hospital bed. “I really hit hard.”
Investigation and Arrest
The Dearborn Police Department (DPD) responded promptly to reports of the incident. Whittaker’s injuries were serious, and surveillance footage from nearby businesses and witness statements helped identify Kreitner as the attacker.
DPD Chief Issa Shahin condemned the violence, stating, “Such violence is completely unacceptable in our city and we will use all resources to pursue justice for victims and their families.” The surveillance footage played a crucial role in helping authorities track down Kreitner, who was arrested on July 5th.
Kreitner was arraigned on July 8th in the 19th District Court on charges of aggravated assault and was ordered held on $20,000 cash bond.
Community Reactions
The community has expressed shock over the incident, particularly given the victim’s age and the violent nature of the attack. Local businesses, residents, and police have praised the witnesses who stepped forward and assisted with the investigation, as well as the businesses that provided surveillance footage that helped authorities quickly identify Kreitner.
In a statement, Whittaker’s family thanked the community for its support and expressed relief that justice is being pursued. Whittaker himself, while still recovering, voiced his hope that such violence would not be tolerated in his community.
Legal and Social Implications
This case underscores the potential consequences of road rage incidents, which can escalate from minor driving frustrations into violent attacks.
Experts argue that road rage can often stem from stress, impatience, or underlying personal issues, but the violence seen here has brought attention to the critical need for community safety and accountability.
As the investigation continues, Kreitner faces serious legal consequences, and many hope that this case will serve as a reminder about the dangers of letting anger dictate actions, especially behind the wheel.
