San Jose police recently responded to a report of a hit-and-run incident near the intersection of Bernal Road and San Ignacio Avenue.
Around 12:15 PM on the 6th, a male suspect was involved in a collision with another vehicle. At the time of the incident, the victim was in the car with his spouse and their one-year-old child, who thankfully were uninjured.
However, the situation escalated when the victim attempted to exchange information with the suspect. Reports indicate that the suspect brandished a firearm and threatened the victim before fleeing the scene just before law enforcement arrived. Following an investigation, Timothy Heideman was identified as the primary suspect.
Detectives from the San Jose police’s assault unit promptly launched a detailed investigation, obtaining a search warrant for Heideman’s residence. On the 7th, patrol officers spotted the suspect’s vehicle on the streets of San Jose, conducted a traffic stop, and successfully detained Heideman. Officers discovered ammunition and a rifle magazine on him at the time of the arrest.
With assistance from the Violent Crimes Enforcement Team (VCET), police executed the search warrant at Heideman’s home. During the search, multiple firearms were seized, including a rifle, a machine gun, and a short-barreled rifle. Additionally, a substantial amount of firearm accessories and various types of ammunition were found, indicating the potential danger Heideman posed.
Currently, Timothy Heideman is being held at Santa Clara County Jail on charges of criminal threats, brandishing a firearm, hit-and-run, and multiple felony counts.
The San Jose Police Department stated that the investigation will continue to ensure the safety of all individuals involved and to prevent similar incidents in the future. This event serves as a reminder to the public to remain calm when dealing with traffic accidents and to resolve disputes through legal means to avoid escalating situations.
