2 Patrol Cars Hit In Chase Of Suspect In Arson Of His Mom's Car, Knife Assault Of Girlfriend: Sheriff

PUTNAM COUNTY, NY — A violent suspect wanted for arson and assault was captured after a multi-state chase that ended with a crash, according to the Putnam County sheriff.

Acting Sheriff Brian Hess reported the arrest of Nathan Pineda, of Brookfield, Connecticut, following a tense vehicle pursuit in Southeast on Wednesday evening.

The volatile scene unfolded after Danbury police issued a BOLO for the 31-year-old who cops say set fire to his mother's vehicle and assaulted his girlfriend with a knife. New York State Police troopers spotted Pineda's car headed north on I-684 and tried to stop him. Pineda continued to flee, striking two sheriff's office patrol vehicles in his attempt to evade arrest, according to police.

His car was eventually disabled, and he was taken into custody on I-84 east, at the Connecticut state line.

"This incident involved a violent and dangerous individual who posed a serious threat to the community and to law enforcement," Acting Sheriff Hess said. "Thanks to the quick response and coordination between our deputies, the New York and Connecticut State Police, and Danbury Police Dept., along with the support of the Westchester-Putnam RTC, we were able to stop this threat and take the suspect into custody."

A search of Pineda's vehicle recovered the weapon allegedly used in the Connecticut assault as well as an open container of alcohol, according to the sheriff's office.

Pineda was charged in New York with felony attempted assault, felony criminal mischief, reckless endangerment, obstruction of government administration, resisting arrest, fleeing a police officer, reckless driving, and moving violations.

He was taken to the Putnam County Correctional Facility for processing. Pineda was arraigned in the Town of Southeast Court and is awaiting extradition to Connecticut.