Brick Woman Charged After Picking Up Fleeing Boyfriend: Police

HOWELL, NJ — A man who police say fled a motor vehicle stop by speeding down the shoulder of Route 9 into Lakewood and then hopping in his girlfriend's car to try to continue the escape is facing multiple charges, Howell police said Thursday.

John C. McKenna, 43, of Toms River was arrested Tuesday, Howell Detective Sgt. Christian Antunez said. McKenna's girlfriend, Dina Gagen, 43, of Brick, was arrested as well, he said.

Antunez said Tuesday's incident began about 12:45 p.m. when Patrolman Scott Brooks pulled over a silver 2008 Dodge Avenger with a brake light that wasn't working and an expired registration. McKenna, who was driving, pulled over on Route 9 south near Estelle Lane, but as Brooks approached to talk to him, McKenna took off, speeding down the shoulder at about 70 mph, Antunez said.

Brooks pursued the car as it went into Lakewood, Antunez said. McKenna turned onto County Line Road heading west, pulled over near Forest Avenue, jumped out and ran off, Antunez said.

Howell police, Lakewood Police and security from nearby Georgian Court University started searching the area for him, Antunez said. Then alert citizens saw McKenna getting into a car near 8th Street and told police, he said.

Police from the two towns pulled over the car Gagen was driving and found McKenna hiding in the back seat. Both were arrested.

McKenna was charged with second-degree eluding police and third-degree hindering apprehension and several motor vehicle violations including driving while suspended and reckless driving, Antunez said. He additionally had an outstanding arrest warrant from Nutley, he said. McKenna was taken to the Monmouth County Correctional Institute to await a detention hearing.

Gagen was charged with fourth-degree obstructing administration of law and fourth-degree hindering apprehension and released on a summons pending court, Antunez said.

Photo via Howell Township police