Hunter
01/09/26
A Michigan man was arrested after causing a tieup on Interstate 80 during late Wednesday afternoon traffic.
KWQC TV reports Iowa State Patrol troopers stopped a pickup driven by 53-year-old John Kucala just before 5:30 as he was heading eastbound near mile marker 275 in Cedar County.
He allegedly told a trooper they had no authority over him and refused to provide a driver’s license, registration or proof of insurance. Backup units were called, and Kucala was told he was being arrested. He was ordered out of the car.
One trooper opened the door of the pickup and put his hands on Kucala, but he reportedly pulled away. The trooper continued trying to remove him, but Kucala closed the truck door on the trooper’s hand and drove away.
The ensuing chase had Kucala driving over stop sticks several times until he was met by troopers near mile marker 296 in Scott County. Trooper vehicles surrounded Kucala and negotiated with him for about an hour, which backed up traffic in both directions.
Troopers used pepper balls and shields to remove Kucala, according to the affidavit. He’s been charged with interference with official acts and eluding.