LANSING – A Michigan man accused of killing a firefighter by running him over with his truck told investigators he did it because he was angry with the traffic delay caused by the fire crew — who were collecting money for charity.

According to charging documents, motorist Grant Taylor was driving in Lansing on Sept. 9 when he came upon an intersection where firefighters were collecting money for the Muscular Dystrophy Association. Frustrated by the traffic delay, prosecutors say, Taylor honked his truck’s horn and tossed an apple core at the group.

He then pulled away from the intersection — but turned around moments later and aimed his truck at firefighter Dennis Rodeman, the court document says. Rodeman was struck by Taylor’s vehicle and received fatal head injuries. 

He died upon arrival at the hospital.

Taylor, who reportedly has a history of mental illness, then fled on foot but was ultimately captured by police. He faces charges of murder, failing to stop at the scene of an accident causing death, and two counts of third degree fleeing and eluding.

Psychiatrists had previously diagnosed Taylor with psychosis and bipolar disorder, the Lansing State Journal reported Monday. In fact, a court ruled that he could “be reasonably expected within the near future to intentionally or unintentionally” seriously injure himself and others.

Two years ago, Taylor’s mother twice petitioned a Michigan court to hospitalize her son for mental health reasons — citing unusual behavior.

A detective testified in court last week about what happened on Sept. 9. He said the firefighters responded well to Taylor’s frustration and even told him they would move out of the way.

However, the detective said the firefighters’ response did not satisfy Taylor, and that the suspect believed the fire crew were mocking him.

A witness testified that he saw Taylor’s truck swerve to hit one firefighter, who was able to duck out of the way.

“At no time during his conversation did (Taylor) express any remorse. Nor did he ask the condition of the victim,” the police detective testified.

Taylor was arraigned on Thursday and bond was denied. He is scheduled to appear at another court hearing this week.