Newark police arrest Somerset County teen for aggravated assault on police officer during drag racing incident
NEWARK, NJ (Essex County) – Newark police arrested an 18-year-old Somerset County man for aggravated assault on a police officer following a drag racing incident early Sunday morning in Newark, according to Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr.
On Nov. 24, at around 1:02 a.m., police responded to Frelinghuysen Avenue and Miller Street following reports of erratic drivers in the area, Miranda said.
Upon officers’ arrival, several individuals at the scene began fleeing on foot and in their vehicles. While attempting to escape, Wyatt Bowden, 18, of Somerville, allegedly drove his car over the foot of a Newark police officer. The officer was immediately transported to University Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition, Miranda said.
“This arrest should put daredevil drivers on alert that the streets of Newark are completely off-limits to anyone planning to drag race or showcase their hazardous driving stunts here,” Miranda said. “Sadly, a Newark Police officer was injured during this incident. But innocent pedestrians and other drivers could have been hurt by this group of careless drivers, who also put themselves in danger.”
Bowden was arrested at the scene and now faces charges of aggravated assault on a police officer, eluding, and possession of a weapon (auto), Miranda said.
Newark Police detectives are continuing their investigation to identify other suspects involved in the incident.
