UPDATE: Three men were arrested this morning in Southington, Connecticut, after a dramatic police chase involving a stolen vehicle. The incident unfolded at approximately 9:30 a.m. on October 16, 2023, when officers identified a gray 2020 Jeep Grand Cherokee Laredo reported stolen from Orange.
According to the Southington Police Department, police attempted to initiate a traffic stop when the suspects accelerated, trying to evade capture. Officers quickly deployed “pursuit prevention devices,” successfully disabling three of the vehicle’s four tires. Despite this, the driver lost control of the Jeep near Old Turnpike Road and Buckland Street, crashing into a mailbox.
All three suspects exited the vehicle and fled on foot. The first suspect, identified as 19-year-old Alexander Almeida-Colella of Waterbury, was apprehended immediately. The second suspect, 24-year-old Dhaejruh Gonzalez, was captured shortly thereafter, while the third, 21-year-old Rahquel Cranford, was caught after a brief foot chase.
Upon his arrest, Almeida-Colella was found in possession of a bag that contained a realistic-looking firearm, later confirmed to be a BB gun, along with brass knuckles, latex gloves, and ski masks. Police emphasized the potential danger these items pose, stating, “This poses a danger to not only our officers, but to the suspects themselves as well as the surrounding community.”
The charges against the trio are serious. Gonzalez faces multiple charges including first-degree larceny, reckless driving, and is being held on a $250,000 bond. Almeida-Colella is charged with possession of a facsimile firearm and interfering with an officer, also held on a $250,000 bond. Cranford faces charges of third-degree burglary and interfering with an officer, similarly held on a $250,000 bond.
Police reiterated their commitment to community safety, stating, “All too often, stolen motor vehicles are associated with violent crime, illegal firearms, narcotics trafficking, and blatant reckless operation. Our officers stand committed to ensuring the safety of this community and holding those individuals engaged in that type of behavior accountable.”
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging anyone with additional information related to this incident to come forward. This high-speed chase and the subsequent arrests serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing issues surrounding stolen vehicles and the potential dangers they bring to the community. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
