FAIRFIELD — Fairfield police have arrested four people in connection with a parking lot takeover that occurred May 2 at a Stop & Shop on Villa Avenue.
Police responded at approximately 10:55 p.m. to reports of vehicles performing dangerous stunts including donuts, burnouts and fishtails in the parking lot at 760 Villa Avenue.
The asphalt was set on fire prior to police arrival, according to authorities.
Participants stood feet away from the vehicles taking videos during the incident.
The crowd and cars dispersed rapidly when police arrived at the scene.
Police established a task force following the incident and worked with the state’s attorney’s office to identify suspects using evidence collected that night.
Officers used dash camera footage, social media monitoring and collaboration with other agencies to gather evidence.
Search and seizure warrants were obtained for vehicles identified in social media videos of the incident.
Police executed search warrants in jurisdictions outside Fairfield, including East Windsor, where the mother of one suspect interfered with officers.
Three vehicles remain in police custody as evidence: a blue Dodge Charger Daytona, a GMC Sierra pickup truck and a white Ford Mustang GT.
David Romero, 20, of East Windsor was arrested on charges including illegal racing on highway, conspiracy to commit illegal racing, first-degree reckless endangerment, breach of peace, second-degree riot and unlawful assembly.
Romero was issued a $75,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court June 13.
Wanda Romero, 49, of East Windsor was charged with tampering with physical evidence and interfering with police.
She was issued a $25,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court June 13.
Dilmar Ruano-Barrera, 26, of Stamford was charged with illegal racing on highway, conspiracy to commit illegal racing, first-degree reckless endangerment, breach of peace, second-degree riot and unlawful assembly.
Ruano-Barrera was issued a $50,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court June 13.
Christopher McGirl, 20, of Wallingford was charged with illegal racing on highway.
McGirl was issued a $10,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court June 13.
