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North Haven police say 1,500 vehicles showed up at Universal Drive last Saturday night for an apparent street takeover that blocked shoppers into parking lots with no way to leave. Hundreds of vehicles reportedly came from out of state to help take over streets in North Haven, Orange, and Derby before returning to Shelton.
Police did not say why drivers from other states targeted Connecticut towns for takeovers last weekend.
During the takeover, authorities say people set off fireworks in the direction of a police cruiser, jumped on the cruiser, and then punched and assaulted an officer who was investigating the takeover.
Police are asking for help to identify suspects in last weekend's takeover.
Connecticut has suffered a string of street takeovers in 2023.
Tolland saw a street takeover event in May, 2023, that led to the destruction of a woman’s car. The street takeover participants are seen approaching the Toyota and kicking at the car while the driver initially tries to leave. Then the driver steps out of the car to address the crowd, attempting to reason with the mob. But instead the mob destroyed the car.
Also in May, approximately 20 motorcycles were reportedly blocking Interstate 91 in a street takeover event in East Windsor. State troopers indicated the motorcycles were blocking the roadway, operating erratically and racing.
Then in July approximately 300 riders on dirt bikes, quads, motorcycles and other all-terrain vehicles participated in a moving street takeover in Milford.
In September, police in Danbury investigated a street takeover that involved a large number of vehicles that were driving recklessly and blocking intersections. All of the vehicles sped off as soon as police arrived.
There have been so many frightening street takeovers in the state that during the last legislative session, a task force was created to help coordinate the response by different police departments.
Governor Ned Lamont signed Public Act 23-203 "An Act Concerning Firearms and Street Takeovers" on June 28, 2023, which went into effect as of October 1, 2023. It is now against the law to promote, incite or recruit for "street takeovers" on social media.
Additionally, a Statewide Tip Line and website were established in May regarding “Street Takeovers” within Connecticut. Individuals can call 1-800-CALL-FBI and select the “Connecticut Street Takeovers” option, or visit fbi.gov/cttakeovertips to provide investigators with video/photos related to these events. All information may be submitted anonymously and will remain confidential.
