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The action started around 3 p.m. Wednesday when Danbury Police Officers Melissa Morrill and Ted Zalenski were patrolling the Steven Street area when they spotted a known drug user engaged in a suspected drug deal with the driver of a gray Acura RL, said Det. Lt. Mark Williams.
As the two officers attempted to approach the Acura, the driver, Abdulwali “Tamel” Peterson, recklessly drove away in an obvious attempt to avoid apprehension. As this was occurring, Morrill and Zalenski were assisted by two officers driving marked patrol cars, Williams said.
Working in concert, when the officers attempted to prevent the Acura from fleeing, the driver intentionally struck the three police cars.
Officer Morrill was hurt when Peterson drove into the car door she was attempting to step out of. Her leg was struck by the door after being hit by the Acura. Due to her quick reaction, her injury is minor and she refused medical attention, Williams said.
The other two police cars were also stopped when they were struck. As the cars obstructed the Acura’s avenue of escape, Peterson crashed into both, which provided an opening and allowed the Acura to flee from the area, police said.
The car was last seen traveling east on I-84 in the area of Newtown, Williams said.
Police are seeking a warrant for Peterson's arrest.
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