Marco Island Golf Cart Road Rage Ends in Arrest After E-Bike Rider Dragged Down Street

What began as a routine ride through Marco Island turned into a terrifying ordeal for a local e-bike rider after a confrontation with a golf cart driver escalated into violence. According to the Collier County Sheriff’s Office, a man was struck and dragged down the road following a heated exchange, an incident that has now led to an arrest.

Deputies arrested Steven Pickett on Monday after investigators determined he was responsible for hitting the rider and continuing to drive while the victim was trapped against the cart. The rider, who asked not to be identified, later described the incident as one of the most frightening moments of his life.

Authorities say the confrontation began at a red light, where Pickett allegedly shouted at the rider and made threats related to riding an e-bike on the roadway. The rider attempted to disengage by turning onto another street, hoping to avoid further conflict.

Instead, the situation escalated when the two crossed paths again moments later. The rider tried to document the golf cart’s license plate, which investigators say appeared to trigger an aggressive response from Pickett.

According to the victim’s account and law enforcement findings, Pickett abruptly stopped his golf cart while the e-bike was traveling behind him, causing a violent collision. The sudden stop sent the rider into the back of the cart and partially over it.

Rather than stopping to help, deputies say Pickett continued driving, dragging the rider along the pavement for nearly the length of a football field before the victim was finally thrown clear onto the roadway.

The rider suffered multiple injuries, including bruising to his stomach, cuts to his legs, and significant damage to his e-bike. While the injuries were not life-threatening, the emotional toll was considerable.

Despite the trauma, the rider said he hopes the incident serves as a wake-up call for drivers and riders alike, emphasizing that aggressive behavior on the road can have life-altering consequences.

Pickett was booked into the Collier County Jail and later bonded out the same day. Charges related to the incident were not immediately detailed publicly, but the sheriff’s office confirmed the investigation remains active.

The incident adds to a growing conversation across Southwest Florida about road safety, especially as e-bikes, golf carts, and traditional vehicles increasingly share the same streets. Marco Island, like many coastal communities, sees heavy use of golf carts and bikes, particularly during peak season.

Law enforcement officials continue to stress that all roadway users must follow traffic laws and exercise patience, regardless of vehicle type. Road rage, even in low-speed vehicles like golf carts, can quickly turn deadly.