A New Jersey man is facing multiple criminal charges after authorities say he called 911 to brag about evading police during a dangerous car chase in East Rutherford.
According to News 12, Vishal Bhatt, 38, initially contacted the police department on January 28 to complain about a traffic ticket he had received earlier that day. Based on statements Bhatt allegedly made during the call, officers decided to conduct a wellness check at his residence.
When police arrived, Bhatt was reportedly sitting inside a white Kia Rio. Authorities say he fled the scene after noticing officers approaching.
Police Say Chase Put Public at Risk
During the attempted traffic stop, officers say Bhatt accelerated at a high rate of speed, improperly passed another vehicle, and nearly collided with oncoming traffic.
“Officers attempted to initiate a motor vehicle stop, but Vishal accelerated at a high rate of speed, illegally passing several vehicles, putting the motoring public at risk,” said Captain Jeff Yannacone. Authorities eventually terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns but were able to positively identify Bhatt as the driver involved in the chase.
Suspect Allegedly Continued Calling Police to Bra
Instead of laying low, police say Bhatt called the department multiple times in the hours following the chase, allegedly bragging about his ability to flee from officers.
Those calls ultimately helped investigators track his movements. On January 30, officers located Bhatt in Clinton, where he was taken into custody without further incident. Bhatt has been charged with eluding police, along with additional motor vehicle offenses related to reckless driving and unsafe operation of a vehicle. Authorities have not disclosed whether he sustained any injuries or if alcohol or drugs were involved.