TOWN OF WALLKILL – A Town of Wallkill police officer responded to a report of an “erratic driver” at 95 Crystal Run Road. Upon arrival, the officer observed a car swerving into oncoming traffic.
The officer attempted unsuccessfully to stop the vehicle. Soon thereafter, one of the vehicle’s tires tore off.
Assisted by members of the State Police, Officers from this Department continued to follow the vehicle as it travelled on three wheels through the City of Middletown, the Town of Mount Hope and the City of Port Jervis. Joined by the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Town of Mount Hope and the City of Port Jervis Police Departments, the vehicle was followed as it entered Interstate 84 East. While travelling on I-84, police were able to flatten one of the tires. With only two good tires left, the car continued East on 84 until approximately mile marker 12, when the vehicle was stopped after being surrounded by police vehicles.
The driver was then taken into custody at approximately 4:14 pm, roughly an hour after the incident began. Brian Downes, 24, of Campbell Hall, was charged with five counts of reckless endangerment first degree, three counts of criminal mischief third degree, reckless driving, and unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree. Downes was sent to Orange County Jail until his next scheduled court appearance on July 6.
During the course of the pursuit, three Town of Wallkill and two State Police vehicles were damaged.
Good Will fire damages home
April 25, 2024
