Man Leads Police on Chase, Strikes Two Cruisers, Attempts to Strike Officer with Vehicle: Hamden Police

An East Haven man faces several charges after leading Hamden police on a chase Monday night in which he struck two police cruisers and allegedly tried to strike an officer with his vehicle and the officer fired his gun at the vehicle.

It all started at about 6 p.m. on Sept. 7 when Hamden police received a complaint of an erratic driver on Whitney Avenue and Lincoln Street. Moments later, Officer Joseph Venditto observed the vehicle driving erratically on Dixwell Avenue and initiated a motor vehicle stop, Capt. Ronald Smith said in a press release.

Upon approaching the vehicle, the operator, who was later identified as Israel Santiago, fled the scene, proceeding southbound onto Whitney Avenue, in an effort to elude officers, according to Smith, who also said there was a passenger inside of the vehicle.

• To sign up for Hamden breaking news alerts and more, click here.

The fleeing vehicle entered the exit ramp at exit 61, traveling the wrong way. The vehicle subsequently collided with a Hamden Police vehicle, on the grass area between the entrance and exit ramps.

Smith said Santiago then attempted to strike the officer with his motor vehicle and the officer discharged his firearm at the vehicle.

Seconds later, Santiago continued to flee in his vehicle, northbound on Route 15. He struck the police vehicle that was operated by Officer Venditto, according to Smith. Santiago’s vehicle became disabled, at which time he fled on foot toward the Mill River, where he was taken into custody.

• Related: State Police Investigate Hamden Police Involved Shooting

A search of Santiago and his vehicle led to the discovery of crack cocaine, according to Smith.

Smith said further investigation revealed that Santiago’s passenger made several requests and attempts to exit the vehicle but he refused to release the passenger.

Hamden police arrested Israel Santiago, 31, of 3 Green Garden Court, East Haven, on charges of first-degree unlawful restraint, possession of narcotics, possession of narcotics with the intent to sell, engaging an officer in pursuit, reckless driving and interfering with a police officer.

Santiago, who was detained on a $100,000 bond, is scheduled to appear in Meriden Superior Court on Sept. 21.

The Connecticut State Police Central District Major Crime Squad is investigating the discharge of the officer’s weapon.