Teaneck, New Jersey – A routine police alert escalated into a dangerous multi-jurisdiction pursuit Sunday evening after authorities say a driver struck a New Jersey police officer with his car and fled, ending in a crash on the George Washington Bridge. The suspect now faces multiple felony charges in Bergen County.
Incident Overview
According to Teaneck police, the incident began around 5:23 p.m. Sunday when officers received an alert that a vehicle wanted out of New York City was traveling through the area. The alert indicated the car and driver were connected to a vehicular assault involving a police officer.
Teaneck Police Chief Andrew R. McGurr said officers located the vehicle as it turned into a municipal parking lot on State Street.
Timeline of Events
Officers followed the vehicle into the lot and attempted to conduct a traffic stop using emergency lights. As one officer exited his patrol car and approached on foot, the driver began turning the vehicle around.
“The officers followed the vehicle, activated their emergency lights, and attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop in the parking lot,” McGurr said.
Moments later, police say the situation turned violent.
Officer Struck During Attempted Stop
As the officer walked toward the car, the driver suddenly accelerated.
“As the officer walked toward the car, the driver accelerated, striking the officer and knocking him to the ground,” McGurr said.
The driver then fled the scene, prompting a pursuit involving multiple law-enforcement agencies.
High-Speed Chase Across Bergen County
Another Teaneck officer soon spotted the suspect vehicle at a nearby shopping center. The chase continued south on Teaneck Road and then along Route 4 East, passing through Englewood and Fort Lee, according to police.
The pursuit reached the George Washington Bridge, where the vehicle entered the lower level. While on the bridge, police say the car side-swiped two other vehicles, increasing the risk to the public.
At that point, local police terminated the chase, and Port Authority Police assumed control.
Crash and Arrest on New York Side
A short time later, the suspect vehicle crashed on the New York side of the George Washington Bridge, authorities said. The driver attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by Port Authority officers after a brief pursuit.
During the arrest, officers reported finding several clear plastic baggies containing what appeared to be cocaine. More details about the substance are expected as the investigation continues. Additional information about the arrest was also reported by NJ.com, which covered the developing situation as police released official details.
Suspect Identification and Injuries
The driver was identified as Royer Soto, 32, of Hazleton, Pennsylvania.
Both Soto and the injured police officer were transported to a hospital for evaluation. Authorities said both sustained minor injuries and were later released.
Charges Filed and Legal Status
Soto is now facing a lengthy list of charges, including:
- Second-degree eluding
- Two counts of third-degree aggravated assault
- Third-degree resisting arrest
- Third-degree possession of a weapon
- Fourth-degree hindering
- Drug possession, charged as a disorderly persons offense
In addition, Soto was issued 30 traffic summonses related to alleged violations that occurred before and during the pursuit, police said.
He was lodged in the Bergen County Jail pending court proceedings. Jail and court records did not list attorney information as of Monday.
Public Safety and Law Enforcement Risks
Police officials emphasized that incidents involving fleeing suspects place both officers and the public at serious risk. Vehicle pursuits, especially on heavily traveled routes like Route 4 and major crossings such as the George Washington Bridge, can quickly escalate into life-threatening situations.
Authorities urge drivers to comply with police commands and remind the public to stay alert and avoid interfering when law-enforcement activity is underway.
Conclusion
The investigation into the chase and crash remains ongoing as Soto awaits court proceedings in Bergen County. Officials continue to review evidence related to the assault on the officer, the pursuit, and the alleged drug possession.
If you witnessed any part of the incident or have safety concerns about police activity in your area, stay informed through official channels and local updates. Share your experiences in the comments below.
