Police say a retired law enforcement officer acted in self-defense when he shot a North Bellmore man who was beating him over the head with a metal flashlight.

The road rage incident took place just after 11 p.m. Tuesday on Bellmore Road near Magnolia Road.

Police say 47-year-old Michael Bua cut off a 62-year-old retired police officer, prompting the drivers to get out of their cars and start arguing. Police say Bua then started hitting the retired officer in the head with the flashlight. That’s when the unnamed retired officer pulled out his licensed gun. 

Detective Lt. Richard Lebrun says the retired officer “felt his life was in danger” and fired one shot that struck Bua in his backside. 

The retired officer, who News 12 learned was a member of the NYPD, is not facing charges. Bua has been charged with assault. Police say he has a prior conviction for assaulting a Suffolk police officer.

The retired officer has had his license permit suspended pending an investigation.