Phoenixville Man Leads Cops, Rangers On Multi-State Chase: Police

PHOENIXVILLE, PA — After nearly hitting a park ranger, a Phoenixville man led cops on a multi-state chase that ended in New York state, authorities said.

The incident began early Sunday morning near the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area.

Police said Jeffrey Stiegelman, 26, fled the scene after almost hitting the ranger in Pennsylvania, and was quickly pursued by National Park Service police rangers, and police from both Milford and the Eastern Pike Regional Police Department.

The chase continued up to the New York state border at Port Jervis, where officers were set up at the Port Jervis/Matamoras Bridge waiting for him. He "continued to operate in a reckless manner" as he eluded police, and was not slowed until authorities used a spike strip to deflate his tires.

Stiegelman then crashed his car into a fence and two unoccupied vehicles on Pike Street, where he was promptly taken into custody. He was treated for minor injuries, police said.

He is currently being held in Port Jervis' lock-up without bail. His arraignment is set for Monday night.

He faces an array of charges including reckless endangerment, unlawful fleeing of a police officer, reckless driving, criminal mischief, criminal possession of a controlled substance, criminal possession of marijuana, and related vehicle and traffic law violations. Authorities added that he will face additional charges in Pennsylvania and from the National Park Service.

Image via Port Jervis Police Department