5 Meriden Police Officers Injured When Car Strikes Cruisers

MERIDEN, CT — Five officers were injured when a car crashed into police vehicles Monday evening. The incident occurred when officers found a red Chevy Impala on North Second Street matching the description of a car used in a shooting at about 5:20 p.m.

Three people were in the car which drove toward two police cruisers and an undercover car. Officers who had approached on foot were hit by the car as it rammed into the police vehicles, police said.

Police also put out stop sticks which popped three of the car's tires. However, the driver still fled and ran over one officer's foot.

The car drove away over the sidewalk and continued to West Main Street. Police were able to locate the car a short time later on Chamberlain Highway near Pasco Street.

The three suspects left the car and ran but police were able to capture them after a brief chase. Police said one man discarded a weapon and after a K-9 search of the area, police found a second weapon.

Five officers were transported to the hospital for treatment of injuries. The injuries ranged from a concussion to a broken foot, as well as officers inside the vehicles who suffered bodily sprains and strains

The investigation is ongoing.

Luis Camacho, 25, of 82 Gravel St. in Meriden, was arrested on numerous charges including five counts of second-degree assault, five counts of assault on a police officer, engaging police in pursuit, and weapons crimes. He was held on $1 million bond.

Miguel Acevedo, 18, of 15 Union St. in Meriden, was charged with interfering with police. His bond was set at $10,000.

A juvenile was charged with carrying a pistol without a permit, weapons in a motor vehicle, and interfering with an officer.

Meriden Mayor Kevin Scarpati posted the following on his Facebook page: "As many of you are aware, it was a busy evening for our Meriden Police Department. First, my thoughts are with our officers who were injured from this incident and pray for a quick and full recovery. I'd also like to thank Wallingford PD for sending officers to assist our department. Lastly, I encourage anyone with information or possible video footage of today's events to contact the Meriden Police Department. Thank you, Meriden PD for keeping us safe tonight, and every night."