On Friday, March 28, 2025, at approximately 12:34 AM, Troop L - Litchfield Dispatch began to receive multiple "911" calls reporting a wrong way driver, traveling south in the northbound lanes of Route 8 in the area of exit 39. Desk Personnel were able to obtain that the vehicle was a black Honda CR-V. While Troopers were responding, one witness called "911" and explained that the vehicle turned around on the highway and was now driving in the correct direction.
The Honda CR-V was located, and a traffic stop was conducted on Route 8 northbound prior to exit 46. The operator was identified as Matthew Thompson (DOB 09/26/1980) of Torrington. Troopers observed that Thompson had glossy eyes, severe dry mouth and a strong odor of an alcoholic beverage emanating from his breath.
Based on Trooper's suspicion that Thompson was under the influence, he was requested to perform the standardized field sobriety tests. Thompson agreed to submit to testing, which he did not perform to standard. Thompson was placed under arrest without incident and transported to Troop L for processing. Thompson was charged with the following:
C.G.S. 14-227a - Operating a Motor Vehicle while Under the Influence of Alcohol/Drugs
C.G.S. 14-237 - Driving the Wrong-Way on a Limited Access Highway
C.G.S. 14-222 - Reckless Driving
C.G.S. 53a-63 - Reckless Endangerment in the First Degree
Thompson was later released on a $5,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in Torrington Superior Court on 04/11/2025.
Please see attached criminal information summary.
