New Haven Man Arrested in Connecticut for Reckless Driving and Weapon in Vehicle

According to a press release from CT State Police, a New Haven man was arrested on January 5, 2025, following an alleged high-speed incident on Route 8 in Bridgeport, which authorities say ended with the discovery of a firearm.

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At approximately 10:50 PM, a sergeant from Troop G-Bridgeport was traveling south on Route 8 near the Prospect Street exit. The sergeant reportedly noticed a vehicle approaching from behind at a high rate of speed, allegedly swerving between the left and center lanes. Concerned that the vehicle might cause a collision, the sergeant took evasive action by veering right.

The sergeant then claimed to have accelerated in an attempt to catch up with the speeding vehicle, which authorities say was traveling more than double the posted speed limit of 40 mph and using all lanes to pass other cars. At one point, the vehicle allegedly took an exit off Route 8 but quickly crossed the gore area to merge back onto I-95 southbound. Authorities say the sergeant activated emergency lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop, and the driver complied, pulling over to the exit ramp.

Due to the hazardous location of the stop, the sergeant allegedly requested additional units for backup. When the sergeant made contact with the driver, they identified him as Bryan Garcia, a 28-year-old man from New Haven. Garcia allegedly communicated through the rear passenger window, claiming the front window was not working. However, the sergeant reportedly saw Garcia partially open the front window during the interaction.

When asked for the vehicle’s registration and insurance, Garcia allegedly explained that it was a rental and provided the rental agreement. As Garcia opened the glove box to retrieve it, the sergeant allegedly noticed a firearm inside and saw Garcia’s hand near the weapon, as if he was about to grab it. In response, the sergeant drew his duty weapon and ordered Garcia to remove his hand from the firearm, which authorities say he complied with.

Backup arrived soon after, and Garcia was allegedly ordered to step out of the vehicle and was taken into custody without further incident. A check of Garcia’s license revealed an active arrest warrant from North Haven for unrelated charges. Authorities later confirmed that the firearm was a .40 caliber pistol, loaded with ammunition, and seized as evidence.

Garcia was arrested and taken to Troop G, where he was processed for the following charges. He was later released on a $1,000 bond and transferred to the North Haven Police Department for service of the unrelated arrest warrant.

Charges:

• CGS 14-222: Reckless Driving
• CGS 29-38: Weapon in a Motor Vehicle

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