A pre-dawn police chase that started on Interstate 684 and spilled onto Interstate 84 ended with two men in custody, a disabled stolen car and one suspect still on the run, authorities said.
State troopers said the vehicle, a 2018 Nissan that had been reported stolen, was ultimately brought to a stop and disabled. All three occupants bolted from the car and ran, but two were caught after a short foot chase through nearby brush. The arrested men were identified as 24-year-old Isaias M. Mendez of Wethersfield and 24-year-old Dwayne A. Graham of Broad Brook, both from Connecticut.
How troopers say the pursuit ended
New York State troopers first tried to pull over the 2018 Nissan around 4:09 a.m. on I-684, when the driver refused to stop and a pursuit began, according to Daily Voice. Troopers later deployed a tire-deflation device on I-84 eastbound near mile marker 70, which disabled the vehicle. The occupants then took off on foot, with officers chasing them into the brush, the outlet reported.
Search efforts and public safety
A heavy police presence was reported in the I-84 and Ives Farm Road area as multiple agencies joined the search for the suspect who got away, according to AOL. Authorities urged anyone who might have seen something, or who has information on the missing suspect, to contact the New York State Police. Troop K, which covers Putnam County, lists its Salt Point office and other contact information on the New York State Police site.
Charges and court dates
Mendez was charged with third-degree criminal possession of stolen property, unlawful fleeing a police officer, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, obstructing governmental administration and reckless driving. Graham faces charges that include third-degree criminal possession of stolen property, resisting arrest and obstructing governmental administration, according to Daily Voice. Both men were arraigned in Town of Southeast Court, remanded to the Putnam County Jail and are scheduled to return to court on May 5, the outlet reported.
Investigation continues
Officials said the third occupant remains at large. He is described as a Hispanic male in his 20s, last seen wearing black pants, a gray sweatshirt and red-and-black sneakers. Police are continuing the investigation and again asked anyone with tips to contact the New York State Police.
