5-16-2023 9:19am

Another Car Chase Safely Ended by Clifton Police - Juveniles from Clifton Involved

Last night, at approximately 7:40 PM, Officer Mohammed Rayyan observed a 2021 Ford Bronco traveling on Rt 21 South near Ackerman Avenue. He was subsequently able to determine that the vehicle was stolen out of Woodland Park earlier in the day. Upon observing the officer, the driver of the stolen vehicle took off at a high rate of speed while disregarding all traffic control devices.

Officer Rayyan began pursuing the vehicle through Clifton, Passaic, and Nutley, during which time the driver of the stolen vehicle struck a curb on Passaic Avenue, almost losing control. The pursuit continued onto Rt 3 East, into the jurisdictions of Rutherford and Secaucus, before heading westbound and back into Clifton. The pursuit continued through the streets of Clifton and eventually to the east side of the City during which time the driver of the stolen vehicle began driving down a one-way street (the wrong way). At that time, officers terminated the pursuit due to the safety of pedestrians and other motorists.

Officers located the vehicle again in the area of West 2nd St (Clifton) at which time the driver of the stolen vehicle crashed into one of the pursuing officers' vehicle. This caused that patrol unit to crash into another patrol vehicle, which was assisting in the pursuit. At that time, the occupants of the stolen vehicle fled the crash scene on foot. Officers chased the two occupants through numerous yards and eventually captured both individuals.

Both of the suspects were taken to the hospital for treatment regarding reported injuries sustained during the crashes. They were released a short time later.

The suspects were identified as juvenile males, 15 and 16 years of age respectively, from the City of Clifton.

The driver of the vehicle (15-year-old) was issued numerous summonses for the reckless operation of the stolen vehicle during the pursuit - including operating the vehicle at speeds over 100 mph. Both were charged with Receiving Stolen Property and Resisting Arrest.

Press release via: D/Lt. Robert Bracken