Gunman Fired Shots Into Car, Led Officers On Chase: West Haven PD

WEST HAVEN, CT — A West Haven man was arrested after police said he fired several shots into a car and ran through several back yards while trying to get away from officers.

Police received multiple 911 calls around 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday reporting shots fired on Hemlock Street, according to Sgt. Patrick Buturla.

Buturla said the gunman fired multiple shots into a car in the driveway, and possibly inside the residence, and then drove away in a Jeep Compass.

A detective in the area saw the fleeing vehicle and engaged in a brief pursuit. The detective successfully blocked in the Jeep at the dead end of Admiral Street, according to Buturla.

Buturla said the suspect then ran through several back yards and members of the patrol division converged on the area and ultimately took Thaddeus Gonzalez into custody.

A K-9 track was conducted to search for evidence and K-9 “Cody” found the gun hidden in a rock wall, according to Buturla.

Gonzalez, 28, was arrested on charges of breach of peace, carrying a pistol without a permit, first-degree reckless endangerment, criminal possession of a firearm, assault of an officer, violation of a protective order, engaging police in pursuit and reckless driving.

“The West Haven Police Department extends its gratitude to all citizens involved in making this a successful apprehension,” Buturla wrote in a news release. “The level of assistance and gratitude shown by the citizens involved in this incident was greatly appreciated by all Officers on scene. We also apologize for any inconvenience the temporary road closures may have caused but are thankful no one was injured in this brazen act of violence. The safe resolution to this incident was a direct result of the involvement of our community and we thank you.”

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