Driver arrested after pursuit in Bath

BATH, NY — A traffic stop early Friday morning led to a high-speed pursuit and foot chase that ended with the arrest of a two-time convicted felon.

Officers with the Village of Bath Police Department observed a vehicle commit a violation of the New York State Vehicle and Traffic Law in the area of West Washington Street and West Morris Street at approximately 12:35 a.m. on March 13, 2026.

The vehicle failed to yield to emergency lights and sirens when officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, leading officers on a high-speed pursuit.

The suspect vehicle exited the village and entered the Town of Bath before driving into a cornfield in an attempt to flee officers.

The vehicle stopped in the cornfield and the operator fled on foot before being quickly apprehended.

The operator was identified as Matthew W. Sill, 30, of Otego, New York.

A passenger in the vehicle was interviewed and released from the scene.

Sill was charged with reckless endangerment in the first degree, a Class D felony; unlawful imprisonment in the first degree, a Class E felony; unlawful fleeing in a motor vehicle, a Class A misdemeanor; obstructing governmental administration in the second degree, a Class A misdemeanor; reckless driving; and 13 other Vehicle and Traffic Law violations.

Sill was processed and transported to the Steuben County Jail for CAP arraignment where he remains held.

Sill had two active warrants for his arrest at the time of the incident.

The Village of Bath Police Department was assisted by the Steuben County Sheriff’s Office and Steuben County 911 center.