A dangerous, wrong-way pursuit on Route 37 came to an end after several Toms River police officers placed themselves in harm’s way to stop a suspected drunk driver before anyone was seriously injured.
Officials said the incident occurred this past Saturday when Patrolman Eric Nelson observed a vehicle traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Route 37. Nelson attempted to get the driver’s attention while traveling in the eastbound lanes, but the motorist ignored his efforts and continued driving the wrong way.
Officials said the vehicle nearly struck multiple other vehicles, prompting Nelson to give chase. The driver allegedly continued attempting to elude police while remaining in the wrong lanes of travel.
As the pursuit unfolded, Patrolmen Robert King and Justin Barberi, who were returning from a special duty assignment, heard the pursuit over the radio and positioned their patrol vehicles to block the suspect vehicle head-on, bringing the pursuit to a safe end.
The driver was arrested and charged with DWI and second-degree eluding.
Officials commended the officers involved, saying they placed themselves at great personal risk to prevent innocent motorists from being injured during the incident.
Officials also noted that Patrolman Eric Nelson made six DWI arrests over the course of the weekend alone.
Huge credit to Patrolmen Nelson, King, and Barberi. A wrong-way drunk driver on Route 37 could have easily turned into a fatal crash. Their quick thinking and willingness to put themselves in danger definitely saved lives. Thank you for stepping up when it mattered most.