Watertown, CT – A one-car crash along Route 8 in Watertown Saturday night led to an arrest after the driver allegedly fled the scene and was tracked into the woods by a Connecticut State Police K9.
According to Connecticut State Police Troop L, troopers responded to Route 8 northbound near Exit 34 at approximately 10:20 p.m. Saturday following reports of a motor vehicle crash in the median. Upon arrival, troopers determined the driver had allegedly left the scene before police arrived.
Trooper DeFoe and K9 partner Nala were deployed to assist in locating the suspect. Police said K9 Nala tracked the individual approximately a quarter-mile into a wooded area near the crash site, where the suspect was located and taken into custody without further incident.
State police said the accused was charged with multiple violations, including evading responsibility involving property damage, interfering with an officer, failure to maintain lane, misuse of license plates, operating a motor vehicle without a license, and operating without insurance. All allegations remain unproven in court.
The suspect was held on a $10,000 cash or surety bond and is scheduled to appear at Waterbury Superior Court on Monday, January 20, 2026, according to police.
The crash caused a brief police presence along Route 8, though officials did not report significant traffic backups. No injuries were reported in connection with the incident.
Connecticut State Police credited the K9 unit for the successful tracking effort, highlighting the role of police dogs in locating suspects who flee crash scenes, particularly in low-visibility nighttime conditions.
Drivers traveling through the Route 8 corridor in Litchfield County are reminded to remain alert, especially during winter conditions, and to remain at the scene of any crash as required by law.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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