Lawrence Man Arrested After High-Speed Chase Through Windham, Londonderry, And Then Salem, State Police Say

SALEM, NH — A Bay State man was arrested by New Hampshire State Police after a high-speed chase on both directions of Interstate 93 on Saturday night.

Just before 11:30 p.m., a state trooper patrolling the Interstate in Windham saw a 2025 BMW X2 crossover on the northbound side of the highway traveling at a high rate of speed. The trooper attempted to stop the driver, but instead, the driver sped up, and a chase ensued, the state police said.

“During the pursuit, the driver of the BMW got off I-93 northbound at Exit 4 in Londonderry,” a report stated. “The driver then got back on I-93, now southbound, and continued at a high rate of speed. While southbound, the driver took the off-ramps at Exit 3 and Exit 2, crossing intersections each time before continuing down on-ramps back to I-93.”

Editor’s note: This post was derived from information supplied by the New Hampshire State Police and does not indicate a conviction. This link explains how to request the removal of a name from New Hampshire Patch police reports.

The crossover eventually ran out of gas near Mile Marker 1.8 on Interstate 93 south in Salem, and the driver, Rafy Villa, 25, of Lawrence, Massachusetts, was arrested on felony reckless conduct with a deadly weapon, disobeying an officer, driving after suspension, and other motor vehicle violations. He was released on personal recognizance and is due in Salem District Court on Feb. 19. Two other occupants were released without charges, state police said.

The vehicle was seized pending further investigation, according to a report.

Salem police assisted state troopers at the scene.

Do you have a news tip? Email it to tony.schinella@patch.com. View videos on Tony Schinella's YouTube or Rumble channels. Patch in New Hampshire is now in 217 communities — and expanding every day. Also, follow Patch on Google Discover.