High-Speed Police Chase in Wilton Leads to Fireworks

The speed limit on Route 7 alternates between 35 and 45 miles per hour. A Danbury man was doing about double that when he began a high-speed chase with police on Monday.

John W. Dunkle, 29, of Danbury was observed by police traveling northbound on around 639 Danbury Road. He was initiatlly detected going 76 mph and quickly accelerated to around 80 mph.

Police immediately tried to stop Dunkle but at that point "he accelerated and attempted to elude police" according to a Wilton PD report. During the pursuit Dunkle lost control of his car, spun around 180 degrees and came to a stop in the area just south of Zion Hill Church.

When asked why he attempted to evade police, Dunkle responded simply, "I took a chance and it didn't work out."

Police reportedly smelled alcohol on his breath and took him into custody. There were conflicting reports at the police department, but one said that Dunkle also admitted to having taken medication prior to driving. Dunkle submitted to urine tests, so no BAC was available at the time of the report but Lieutenant Don Wakeman did say that a urine analysis was consistent with suspicion of drugs being involved.

Dunkle's vehicle didn't sustain any major accident during the pursuit or subsequent spin out. Police also discovered a large quantity of fireworks in the vehicle, as well, which included 137 packages of "Thunderbomb firecrackers" as well as Jetstar explosive rockets and moon-travel bottle rockets.

Dunkle was ultimately charged with speeding, engaging police in pursuit, possession of fireworks and operating under the influence. He was released on $250 bond and has an Aug. 5 court date.