A New Jersey teenager faces significant allegations following a drag racing incident that resulted in injuries to a police officer.
A young Somerville resident, just 18 years old, faces charges of aggravated assault on a police officer following a drag racing incident that took a turn for the worse in Newark early Sunday morning.
Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda Sr. reported that authorities received a call around 1 a.m. regarding erratic driving at the intersection of Frelinghuysen Avenue and Miller Street in the southern part of the city.
Upon the arrival of law enforcement, numerous people present at the location started to escape, some running away while others drove off in vehicles. In a dramatic turn of events, Wyatt Bowden reportedly ran over an officer’s foot while trying to escape the scene, according to officials.
Authorities took Bowden into custody, charging him with aggravated assault against a police officer, evading law enforcement, and possession of a weapon (the vehicle).
“This arrest should put daredevil drivers on alert that the streets of Newark are completely off limits to anyone planning a drag race or showcasing their hazardous driving stunts here,” Miranda said.
“Sadly, a Newark police officer was injured during this incident. But innocent pedestrians and other drivers could have been hurt by his group of careless drivers, who also put themselves in danger,” he added.
The officer has been transported to University Hospital for care and is said to be in stable condition.
The inquiry is ongoing as authorities strive to pinpoint additional individuals connected to the case.