Report: Newark Police Thwart Burglary in Progress

Newark police captured a burglary suspect Thursday morning who attempted to escape by jumping along neighboring rooftops, the department said in a statement. 

A police officer was hurt in the pursuit, Newark police also said.

Officers responded to a call of a burglary in progress around 11:30 am at 20 Highland Ave., where a ladder was propped up leading to a second-floor window. Officers then spotted Ulysses Soler 37, running from the scene and chased him as he leapt from one garage roof to the next. One of the pursuing officers injured his back when he got lodged in the roof after it partially collapsed beneath him. He was taken to University Hospital, where he was listed in stable condition.

Soler reportedly broke into the basement of 132 Ridge St., where police canvassing the area found him a short time later.

Soler, who has a history of burglary, was also wanted on an open bench warrant for another burglary in Newark earlier this year. Soler has been charged with two counts of burglary, resisting arrest, and for making terroristic threats against  a police officer after he allegedly threatened to kill one of the arresting officers.

"I applaud each of the officers involved for their dedication and determination in arresting this suspect who was clearly determined to escape,” Police Director Samuel DeMaio said. “Our officers routinely risk life and limb in the name of public safety and they represent the finest traditions of the Newark Police Department. I am glad that none of our officers were seriously injured and I pray for the injured officers complete and speedy recovery."