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The incident began in Newtown around 10:55 a.m., Thursday, April 14, when state police were notified that an armed carjacking had just taken place.
The vehicle was spotted by troopers traveling on I 84 east by Exit 14 in New Haven County in Southbury shortly after the incident occurred, Connecticut State Police said.
The vehicle engaged troopers in pursuit and got off the highway at Exit 15 where it crashed, state police said.
The driver was taken into custody and identified as Christopher Lemke, age 33, of Bethel.
It was learned that Lemke also had an active warrant out of Danbury for firearms-related charges. A stolen firearm and narcotics were recovered at the scene, state police said.
Lemke was transported to the Troop A barracks where he was processed and charged with:
- Criminal possession of a pistol/ revolver
- Theft of a firearm
- Illegal possession of a weapon in a motor vehicle
- Possession of narcotics with intent to sell
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Reckless endangerment
- Engaging police
- Reckless driving
Lemke was held in custody on a $1 million bond.
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