ID Released For Teen Critically Injured In Officer Involved Shooting

An 18-year-old teen who allegedly crashed into a police cruiser and then drove toward a police officer is in critical condition after being shot by one of the officers, said the Connecticut State Police.

Route 99 (Silas Deane Highway) in Wethersfield.
Photo Credit: *Google Maps street view*

Kathy Reakes

04/22/2019 10:16 a.m.

The incident took place around 5:59 p.m., Saturday, April 20, when two Wethersfield police officers attempted a motor vehicle stop of the suspect’s vehicle, said the state police.

The suspect, identified as Anthony Jose Vega Cruz, of Wethersfield, then allegedly hit the police cruiser on Silas Deane Highway, between Mill and Maple streets, state police said.

After the collision, one officer exited the vehicle and Vega Cruz allegedly drove his vehicle towards that officer. The officer then fired his firearm, state police said.

Vega Cruz was injured and transported to Hartford Hospital, they added.

A female passenger, 18-year-old Stephanie Santiago, of Hartford, who wasn’t injured, was detained by Wethersfield Police Department and released a short time later.

Anyone with any information in regards to this investigation should contact the CT State Police at 860- 685-8190. You can remain anonymous.

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