NEW BRITAIN, Conn. — Police say a 17-year-old New Britain juvenile was arrested in connection with the deadly hit and run Tuesday night. Police added that the teenager was the driver of the car.
According to officials, a victim of larceny at a Plainville gas station called police to report the incident and that he was following the suspects into New Britain.
The suspects had jumped into an Audi that was stolen out of Hartford.
Police said despite being told to stop following the car, the individual continued their pursuit.
At one point, the Audi sped up in the area of East Street at Belden Street, crashed into a bush, and then through a fence.
That's when a 53-year-old New Britain man running on the sidewalk was struck by the vehicle, officials said in a release. The victim was taken to the hospital, where he was pronounced dead.
Police say the suspect vehicle had been involved in multiple criminal incidents.
New Britain PD is still working to identify the other suspect of the stolen vehicle. A picture was released of the suspects but it is unclear which one was arrested due to the driver's age.
The driver was charged with assault in the first degree, reckless driving, and first-degree larceny by possession.
Police said the juvenile is a repeat offender and has been arrested 13 times in the last 3 1/2 years for charges like assault with a knife and reckless driving.
New Britain Mayor Erin Stewart tweeted Wednesday afternoon, criticizing Connecticut's juvenile system.
"And this is why. Exactly why," said Mayor Stewart. "Somebody's life could've been saved but this was a complete failure of the Connecticut juvenile justice system, if you can say there even is one."
A neighbor shared shocking surveillance video with FOX61 that captured the entire incident, including the moment that jogger was struck.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Lieutenant Blackmore at 860 826-3131 or call the anonymous tip line at 860 826-3199.
This is a developing story.
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