Aldrin Sampear, a well-known television journalist and news anchor, became embroiled in a heated road rage incident, the details of which are circulating widely online via a recorded video.
The altercation occurred Thursday on Randburg’s busy roadways, documented by 20-year-old Laricia Augusto, who alleges the broadcaster acted aggressively following a slight fender-bender. According to a report in The Citizen, Augusto stated a taxi abruptly stopped, prompting her to signal and shift into the right lane. She explained that as she was changing lanes in front of the former SABC news personality, he began to accelerate.
“He was practically tailgating me, blasting his horn repeatedly. I wasn’t sure what the problem was, but to prevent a scene, I moved back into the left lane to allow him to pass. That’s when the situation escalated,” Augusto told the publication.
Augusto recounted how Sampear suddenly cut in front of her vehicle, resulting in a collision with his rear tire.
After the impact, both vehicles stopped, and the disagreement quickly intensified. She claims he began yelling as he approached her.
“He was shouting at me. I attempted to explain myself, pointing out that his actions appeared to be a deliberate act of road rage. I even told him there was ample space for him to drive safely,” she was quoted as saying.
The video shows Sampear repeatedly questioning the woman about a perceived gesture.
In response, Augusto, appearing visibly distressed, questioned him about the impact.
“Why did you give me that finger, are you out of your mind?” Sampear continued to ask, his voice raised.
The argument continued until Sampear retreated to his car, and Augusto followed, insisting he couldn’t leave.
“I’m not going anywhere,” he replied.
Speaking with IOL, Sampear acknowledged his involvement in a minor accident Thursday afternoon.
According to Sampear, the incident stemmed from another driver attempting to merge in front of him after a taxi had stopped.
“There was a verbal exchange while we were stopped. I’m shocked to see a manipulated version of the video, as I had actually gone to retrieve my phone and license to share with the driver. I never assaulted the driver. We exchanged information. I’ve reported the matter to the police, and my legal team will address this accurately and transparently,” he stated.
Meanwhile, it is reported that Augusto has filed assault charges against Sampear.
