Hit-And-Run Leads To Dangerous Pursuit On Southern State Pkwy.: Police

NORTH MASSAPEQUA, NY — State troopers had to deal with a high-risk pursuit Sunday on the Southern State Parkway, police said.

The chase started after a black 1997 Toyota Camry, driven by Christian Reyes, 29, of Brentwood, was involved in a hit-and-run collision on Sunday morning, state poilce said.

Following the crash, Reyes fled the scene.

Troopers quickly canvassed the area and located his vehicle, police said.

In an effort to evade capture, Reyes continued to flee onto the Belt Parkway, heading toward Kennedy Airport. Several state police units attempted to safely apprehend Reyes, but engaged in reckless driving maneuvers, authorities said.

As traffic came to a standstill, Reyes escalated the situation by sideswiping and attempting to back into both police and civilian vehicles, police said.

In a final attempt to evade capture, Reyes exited his vehicle and fled on foot. Officers were able to quickly apprehend him, state police said.

Reyes sustained minor injuries during the incident and was transported to an area hospital evaluation.

He was charged with driving while ability impaired with drugs, three counts of second-degree criminal mischief, reckless endangerment of property, unlawful fleeing of a police officer, second-degree obstructing governmental administration and resisting arrest, state police said.

He was arraigned on Sunday.