FLEMINGTON, NJ — A man was arrested March 9 after allegedly stealing a running vehicle and assaulting the owner who tried to stop him.
Officers from the Flemington Borough Police Department responded to Capner Street between Main Street and Park Avenue for a reported motor vehicle theft in progress.
Police learned the victim had exited his vehicle while it was running with the keys inside.
Zachary Verrastro, of Asbury, New Jersey, allegedly entered the vehicle with the intent to steal it.
The victim returned and attempted to stop the theft as Verrastro tried to leave the area.
The vehicle traveled a short distance down the roadway before coming to a stop.
Officers intervened and took Verrastro into custody at the scene.
The victim sustained minor injuries after being assaulted and dragged during the incident and was treated at the scene.
Verrastro was charged with carjacking, assault by auto, aggravated assault and criminal mischief.
He was lodged at the Warren County Correctional Facility via the Hunterdon County Sheriff’s Office pending a court appearance.
Anyone with information is asked to contact the Flemington Borough Police Department at 908-782-3434.
