North Haven Police Cruiser Hit During Attempted Car Break-In

NORTH HAVEN, CT — Police are seeking information from the public after a North Haven police cruiser was seriously damaged early Saturday morning while attempting to stop a vehicle break-in. A 14-year-old teen is also in custody following the incident, police said.

According to North Haven police, an officer was called to 160 State St. around 2:15 a.m. for a report of people trying to break into vehicles.

When the officer arrived, authorities said they saw a person run across the parking lot and get into a vehicle. Soon after, that vehicle as well as a second one drove toward the officer's cruiser, police said. The first car hit the cruiser, causing extensive damage, according to police.

Authorities said the first car, which was stolen from Hamden, was found abandoned a short distance away. The second vehicle, a stolen Kia Sportage, fled the area.

According to police, a 14-year-old juvenile from New Haven was arrested minutes after the incident. According to police, witnesses saw the teen smashing a window to a vehicle just before officers arrived.

It's unclear whether the 14-year-old was the driver of one of the stolen vehicles.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident or has information about the attempted theft or suspects should call Officer Brandon Opuszynski at 203-239-5321, ext. 284, or North Haven Detectives at ext. 240. Callers can remain anonymous.