An attempted traffic stop on I-84 escalated into a multi-agency police chase across Wallkill, ending in the arrest of two suspects, one of whom allegedly tried to flee by stealing a scooter from a juvenile.
On the afternoon of Sep. 23, New York State police attempted to stop a 2010 Honda Accord traveling west on I-84 in Wallkill for multiple traffic violations. The driver failed to comply, prompting a pursuit that continued onto Rt. 17. During the chase, a black and silver handgun was thrown from the vehicle and later recovered as a loaded Smith & Wesson.
The pursuit proceeded through Rt. 302 and ended on Amy Lane, where the vehicle became disabled after hitting a boat trailer on private property. Both occupants fled on foot. The 18-year-old driver from Port Jervis allegedly tried to steal a scooter from a female juvenile to escape but was stopped by a 16-year-old male until troopers arrived. The passenger, 19-year-old Ahjai A. Brand of Middletown, was caught later following a brief foot pursuit.
Brand was charged with multiple felony and misdemeanor offenses, including weapon possession, evidence tampering, and obstructing government administration. The driver faced a broader set of charges, including weapons offenses, reckless endangerment, robbery, fleeing police, unlicensed operation, and several traffic violations. Both were arraigned in Wallkill Town Court and held at Orange County Jail on $100,000 cash bail or higher bond options.
The investigation involved assistance from several local law enforcement agencies and specialized State Police units, including forensic, drone, and K9 teams.
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