Dramatic end as stolen vehicle slams into tree
Utica, NY — A stolen military-style vehicle tore through city streets in the early morning hours, crashing into infrastructure and injuring officers before the suspect was finally taken into custody.
The incident began around 2:20 a.m. Wednesday when a security officer at the Alexander Pirnie Federal Building reported a suspicious man and noticed a large military-style vehicle missing from a nearby location on Oriskany Street.
Police later located the vehicle on West Street and attempted a stop, but the driver refused to comply. Authorities said the vehicle moved erratically before accelerating toward officers, forcing them to take evasive action.
The driver then sped through multiple streets, striking a utility pole, a fire hydrant, and causing significant damage to a building on Genesee Street. During the pursuit, an officer attempting to intervene was thrown from the vehicle and injured.
The truck continued through Oneida Square before crashing into a tree on the 1600 block of Genesee Street, disabling it.
Officers moved in and, after a struggle, took the driver into custody. A second officer suffered injuries to the hand and wrist during the arrest.
The suspect was identified as 29-year-old Daniel Passino-Brazeau, who has no known address.
He faces multiple charges, including second-degree assault, grand larceny, driving while intoxicated, and unlawful fleeing of police, along with numerous traffic violations. Additional charges are expected.
Both injured officers were treated and released from the hospital, though one has been placed out of work due to injuries.
Portions of Genesee Street remained closed following the incident due to debris and damage.
Key Points
- Stolen military-style vehicle led police on dangerous chase
- Two officers injured during pursuit and arrest
- Suspect faces multiple charges including assault and DWI