Hackensack police chase ends with man driving into river to escape police

Charlie Dwyer

A police pursuit involving a driver ended in the Hackensack River in New Jersey. The driver, identified as Michael A. Zullo, 51, was pursued by Secaucus police after being involved in a crash in the Hackensack River on Paterson Plank Road.

Zullo used a wrench to break out of his car window and stood in the water, attempting to swim away to evade arrest. Law enforcement agencies, including helicopters and boats, were called to the scene, and Zullo was eventually arrested after being pepper-sprayed and restrained.

Detective Lieutenant Torres negotiated with Zullo while he stood in the river making irrational statements, according to Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miller.

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The incident lasted for nearly two hours, according to police.


Zullo was taken to the Jersey City Medical Center for an evaluation, and no injuries were sustained by any officers. Charges were pending against Zullo following the incident.


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