EAST BRUNSWICK–After allegedly fleeing from East Brunswick police during a vehicle stop, a 33-year-old man from New Brunswick was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun.
Patrolman Ryan Welch and Patrolman Matthew Egnasko reportedly observed a silver 2011 BMW on Tower Center Boulevard that failed to signal a turn while entering Route 18 southbound around 11:15 p.m. on May 1, according to police. The BMW then exited Route 18 toward the New Jersey Turnpike Exit 9 toll plaza, where the officers initiated a motor vehicle stop, according to police.
Prior to the BMW coming to a stop, the rear seat passenger allegedly opened the door and fled from the vehicle. Egnasko gave chase to the suspect while Welch stayed with the occupants of the vehicle, according to police.
Egnasko was able to apprehend the passenger and take him into custody following a brief struggle. Following the arrest of the man, he was found to be reportedly in possession of a loaded 9mm handgun, according to police.
The man was charged with possession of a weapon for unlawful purpose, unlawful possession of a weapon, certain person not to have weapons, aggravated assault on law enforcement officer, resisting arrest, obstruction and possession of marijuana.
A subsequent investigation led to charges against a 36-year-old man from Sayreville and a 38-year-old woman from Somerset, for possession of marijuana, according to the statement. Additionally, the woman had outstanding warrants from multiple jurisdictions, according to police.
All three were remanded to the Middlesex County Adult Correction Center, according to police.