Crime & Safety

Cops Spot Stolen Car In North Caldwell, High-Speed Chase Follows

Police from North Caldwell and Verona took part in the chase, which also approached Montclair. Three suspects are in custody.

NORTH CALDWELL, NJ — A high-speed police car chase took place after North Caldwell officers spotted a stolen vehicle on Thursday morning.

The North Caldwell Police Department released a statement about the chase, which also involved officers from Verona and approached Montclair. Police wrote:

“At 5:20 a.m. this morning, officer Ryan Condit observed a silver Maserati driving erratically in the area of Central Avenue and East Greenbrook Road. When he attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop, the vehicle which was reported stolen in New York, fled at a high rate of speed. After a pursuit, officers lost sight of the vehicle near Bloomfield Avenue, which was traveling at very dangerous speeds. As officers checked the area, they eventually located the stolen vehicle as it crashed through the rear, locked gate of the Four Season Complex, and went off road to prevent apprehension.”

Here’s what happened next, police said:

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“Officer Connie Schlette reengaged in a pursuit of a now severely damaged vehicle. The vehicle went through North Caldwell into Verona, where Verona officers assisted in the pursuit. As the vehicle was approaching Montclair, four actors fled the vehicle, leaving it in drive as it continued east bound on Bloomfield Avenue driverless. Officer Schlette was able to get into position to safely bring the vehicle to a stop before causing any additional accident or injury, while Verona police engaged in a foot pursuit. One of the fleeing suspects was caught, arrested and brought back to North Caldwell police for processing. The individual claims to be a 17-year-old from Irvington, however, police are still trying to properly identify him at this time.”

North Caldwell police advised local drivers to lock their cars and remove all valuables every night.

In a later update, police said that a second suspect was apprehended after being found hiding under a deck in Verona. A third suspect has also been detained and charges are being filed.

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"All suspects have been identified and are all adults," authorities said.

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com

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