SOUTHEAST, NY — A Putnam Valley man faces multiple charges following a vehicle pursuit and hit-and-run crash on Dec. 18.
Patrick Vasi Jr., 36, of Putnam Valley, was arrested after fleeing from deputies during a traffic stop, according to Putnam County Sheriff Brian Hess.
At approximately 7:40 a.m., the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office Traffic Unit was conducting speed enforcement on Deans Corner Road in the Town of Southeast when deputies observed Vasi operating a white BMW SUV at an unsafe speed while passing other vehicles and school buses.
A deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop, but Vasi refused to comply and a vehicle pursuit ensued.
During the pursuit, Vasi operated the vehicle in a reckless manner, unreasonably endangering other motorists, according to the sheriff’s office.
The pursuit continued southbound onto Route 121, where deputies lost visual contact with the vehicle near the Westchester County line.
The vehicle was later located abandoned on Route 121 in the Town of North Salem by the New York State Police.
At approximately 8:38 a.m., Vasi was located at the Goldens Bridge Train Station and taken into custody by New York State Police.
Vasi was charged with reckless endangerment in the second degree, unlawful fleeing a police officer in a motor vehicle in the third degree, reckless driving, resisting arrest and multiple vehicle and traffic law citations.
Further investigation determined that Vasi was also the suspect in a hit-and-run motor vehicle collision that occurred earlier the same morning at approximately 7:06 a.m. in the Town of Putnam Valley, during which another motorist sustained injuries.
Vasi was additionally charged with leaving the scene of a personal injury motor vehicle accident in connection with that incident.
