Car Flips, Catches Fire in New London Parking Lot with 3-Year Old Onboard: Police

NEW LONDON, CT - Police said a vehicle slipped several times and caught fire in a New London shopping center parking lot Tuesday.

Police and fire departments responded to multiple reports of a roll over motor vehicle accident at approximately 6:49 p.m. Reports indicated the possibility of unknown injuries and a vehicle possibly on fire in the parking lot of 322 South Frontage Road, according to a release.

Police determined upon arrival that a vehicle was traveling north on Interstate 95 and entered South Frontage via Exit 82A. The vehicle then lost control and entered the parking lot of the New London Shopping Center at high speed.

Witnesses in the parking lot said the vehicle flipped several times and caught fire. It also struck five other empty parked vehicles in the lot, causing heavy damage to each vehicle.

Police said two women and a 3-year old child were in the flipped vehicle. No one in the parking lot or the vehicle was injured.

The driver, Giana Velez, 23, of New London, was charged with driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs (DUI), child endangerment while driving under the influence, reckless driving and operating under suspension.

The suspect was released after posting bond.

Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the New London Police Department.