On 07/03/24 at approximately 10:45 AM, personnel from Troop H-Hartford were dispatched to I-91 northbound prior to exit 22 in Cromwell for a reported evading motor vehicle accident. Upon Trooper's arrival on scene, it was determined that there were no injuries reported amongst those involved in the accident still on scene. Initial investigation determined that a dark colored Nissan sedan was merging onto I-91 north from exit 21 and collided with a dump truck in the right lane. This collision caused the operator of the Nissan to lose control, at which point the Nissan collided with a pickup truck in the center lane. Following this, the Nissan evaded the scene of the accident and continued north on I-91.
Shortly thereafter, the Nissan was located in the right shoulder of I-91 north by exit 23, unoccupied. Troopers made contact with the registered owner, who explained that the vehicle was last operated by Cesar Estrada (DOB 05/07/88). The registered owner further explained to Troopers that Estrada was currently with her at a clinic in Middletown.
Troopers made contact with both parties at the clinic, and Estrada was positively identified by his CT operator's license. Estrada explained to Troopers that he was the sole occupant of the Nissan earlier that morning, but he did not recall being involved in an accident. Estrada also explained that he was not injured. While speaking with Estrada, Troopers observed Estrada exhibiting visible signs of impairment. Standardized Field Sobriety Testing was administered on Estrada, which were not performed to standard. Estrada was subsequently arrested and transported to Troop H for processing. Estrada was processed under the following charges:
CGS 14-227a(2nd); Illegal Operation of a Motor Vehicle Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs (second offense)
CGS 14-236; Failure to Maintain Proper Lane- Limited Access Highway
CGS 14-224(b)(3); Evading Responsibility (2 counts)
Estrada was later released from custody on a $2,500 bond and is scheduled to appear at Middletown Superior Court on 07/22/24. Please see attached accident information and criminal information summaries.
