Crime & Safety
NH Cop Arrested After Hit-and-Run Crash
Police: Steven Cornacchia allegedly left the scene of a crash after striking a pedestrian with his Mustang at West Merrimack, Elm streets.
MANCHESTER, NH — A local police officer has been placed on administrative leave with pay after being accused of leaving the early morning scene of a hit-and-run accident on Sunday morning, according to police. Steven Cornacchia, 31, of Manchester, a police officer for a little more than four years, was arrested on May 15, 2017, and charged with conduct after an accident. According to a report, officers were sent to Elm and West Merrimack streets at just after 1:15 a.m. on May 14, for the report of a female pedestrian being struck and a vehicle fleeing the scene.
Editor’s Note: This post was derived from information supplied by the Manchester Police Department. It does not indicate a conviction. This link explains the name removal request process for NH Patch police reports.
“The victim stated that she and her friend were crossing West Merrimack Street when they observed the Mustang drive toward them,” according to Lt. Brian O’Keefe of the Manchester Police Department. “Both stated the vehicle made impact with the victim’s right side, which caused her to fall to the ground. The fall caused minor injuries to her leg, as well as minor abrasions.”
Find out what's happening in Bedfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
The driver – a man – reportedly stopped to check on the victim “before fleeing the area,” O’Keefe alleged. The victim’s friend recorded the registration and a subsequent follow-up investigation revealed the car was registered to Cornacchia, according to O’Keefe. Police investigated the incident and allegedly determined that Cornacchia was the male driver, according to a press statement.
“Officer Cornacchia was immediately placed on administrative leave, with pay, by Chief Nick Willard, who ordered an immediate criminal and internal investigation into the incident,” O’Keefe stated. “Officer Cornacchia will remain on leave pending the outcome of both the criminal and internal investigations.”
Find out what's happening in Bedfordfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
A warrant was issued for his arrest and he turned himself into police yesterday. After Cornacchia's arrest, he was suspended without pay.
Cornacchia is due in court on June 20.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
