UPDATE: Three men were arrested this morning in Southington, Connecticut, after a dramatic police chase involving a stolen vehicle. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:30 a.m. today when officers spotted a gray 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo, reported stolen from Orange.
Authorities confirmed that officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on the vehicle, which sped away in an apparent bid to evade capture. Police quickly deployed “pursuit prevention devices,” successfully disabling three of the vehicle’s four tires. Despite this, the driver lost control near Old Turnpike Road and Buckland Street, colliding with a mailbox.
As the suspects fled on foot, police apprehended 19-year-old Alexander Almeida-Colella of Waterbury almost immediately. Following a brief foot chase, officers captured 24-year-old Dhaejruh Gonzalez and 21-year-old Rahquel Cranford.
At the time of his arrest, Almeida-Colella was found in possession of a bag containing a realistic-looking firearm, later identified as a BB gun, along with brass knuckles, latex gloves, and ski masks. Police emphasized the inherent danger of such items, stating, “This poses a danger to not only our officers, but to the suspects themselves as well as the surrounding community.”
All three men face serious charges. Gonzalez is charged with first-degree larceny, engaging police in a pursuit, reckless driving, evading responsibility, and third-degree criminal mischief, with a bond set at $250,000. Almeida-Colella faces charges of possession of a facsimile firearm, weapons in a motor vehicle, and interfering with an officer, also held on a $250,000 bond. Cranford is charged with third-degree burglary and interfering with an officer, sharing the same bond amount.
The Southington Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant, noting that stolen vehicles are often linked to violent crime and narcotics trafficking. “Our officers stand committed to ensuring the safety of this community and holding those individuals engaged in that type of behavior accountable,” officials stated.
As this story develops, residents are encouraged to stay updated on the latest from local law enforcement.