Norton Police Chase: Suspect Jumps Out Moving Car, Spends Night in Woods

Norton, MA — A Norton police chase suspect was captured over the weekend after police said she crashed and spent a night in the woods.

Marissa Downey, 29, of South Boston, was charged with a host of crimes.

Police said Downey was driving a stolen Toyota Yaris on East Main Street Saturday at about 10:30 p.m. An officer attempted to stop her because she was driving with her headlights off, but she drove off and hopped on Route 495, reaching speeds over 100 mph and swerving between lanes, police said.

Downey exited the highway in Taunton and made it to Bay Street, where she struck a light pole then jumped from the car as it was going about 30 mph, police said. She fled into the woods on Field Street; officers searched the area but couldn't immediately find her. She spent the night in the woods and was arrested the next morning at about 6:30 a.m. when she emerged to awaiting officers.

Downey was transported to Sturdy Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. She was charged with:

• Receiving stolen property
• Reckless driving
• Speeding
• Lane and vehicle light violations

Police said the vehicle she was driving was stolen from Lincoln, Rhode Island.

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