STAMFORD, CT — A parolee is behind bars after leading Stamford police on a chaotic vehicle and foot chase that ended on the roof of a local technical school, prompting lockdowns and a multi-agency manhunt.
The incident began on May 21 when officers from Stamford PD’s Traffic Unit observed a black Mercedes SUV driving the wrong way on Sixth Street toward Bedford Street. When officers attempted a traffic stop, the driver fled — sparking a pursuit through city streets, across Washington Boulevard, and through Scalzi Park.
The suspect, identified as Carl Dawkins, then ran through a river and trespassed onto the fenced campus of Wright Tech, eventually climbing onto the school’s roof. For safety, both Wright Tech and nearby Cloonan Middle School were placed on lockdown.
A perimeter was quickly established with the help of Connecticut State Police, and Dawkins was taken into custody without further incident.
Police say the vehicle was reported stolen from Southfield Avenue and that Dawkins, currently on parole, was found with suspected stolen property inside the SUV.
Dawkins faces multiple charges, including motor vehicle theft, criminal trespass, interfering with police, engaging in pursuit, reckless driving, and driving the wrong way on a one-way street. His bond has been set at $100,000, and he is also being held on a parole remand.
