WALLINGFORD, Conn. — A Wallingford man is facing several charges after he drove into a local business and tried to run from the scene, police said.
The crash happened just before 1:30 a.m. Thursday on North Colony Road. Police said an officer saw an older-model black Crown Victoria driving erratically in the Center Street and East Main Street area. According to officials, the office tried to pull the car over, but the driver, later identified as Matthew Hackley, did not stop.
The office did not try to pursue the car, police said. A short time later, the same officer found the car in the municipal parking lot in the downtown area and tried to stop Hackley once more.
Again, Hackley reportedly sped away from the officer. While trying to drive off, Hackley struck a light pole before he turned onto North Colony Road.
Hackley crashed into the front of the business Style By Katelyn, part of a building with several storefronts at 26 North Colony Road. Officials said the crash caused "significant damage" to the car and the front of the business.
After the crash, Hackley got out of the car and tried to run from the scene on foot when the officer eventually found him in the area of Meadow Street. Police said a set of brass knuckles was found on Hackley's person, and a mechanic's hammer was found inside the car.
Hackley was taken to the Wallingford Police Department and charged with reckless driving, failure to obey a police signal, driving under the influence, failing to drive in the proper lane, engaging police in a pursuit, evading responsibility, failing to obey a stop sign, resisting an officer, and illegal possession of weapons in a motor vehicle.
He was released from police custody after posting a $5,000 bond.
Jennifer Glatz is a digital content producer at FOX61 News. She can be reached at jglatz@fox61.com.
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