09/28/2026
Newington Police Department
NEWS RELEASE
Newington Police Arrest 18 Individuals Following July 12 Illegal Street Takeover
The Newington Police Department, as a result of continuous and ongoing investigations, has identified and arrested eighteen (18) individuals following a large group of ATVs, dirt-bikes, UTVs, and other motorcycle riders who operated on Newington roadways and engaged in conduct commonly associated with an illegal street takeover on Sunday, July 12, 2026.
On July 12, 2026, at approximately 5:50 p.m., Newington Police were alerted by neighboring law enforcement agencies that a large group of mopeds, ATVs, UTVs, dirt bikes, and other motorcycles was traveling from the Hartford area towards the Town of Newington.
The group consisted of approximately 200 vehicles and were creating dangerous conditions on the roadways performing stunts and disobeying traffic laws.
Newington investigators observed the group enter the intersection of the Berlin Turnpike and Prospect Street. Numerous operators were observed performing stunts, including “wheelies,” while disregarding traffic signals and taking positions that blocked uninvolved motorists from proceeding through the intersection.
Uninvolved vehicles attempting to travel northbound on the Berlin Turnpike became stuck in traffic as a result of the group’s actions. Uninvolved vehicles attempting to travel eastbound from East Robbins Avenue were also prevented from proceeding as members of the group occupied the intersection and conducted an illegal street takeover.
The group continued southbound on the Berlin Turnpike, with numerous operators continuing to perform stunts. Several riders left the roadway and traveled across the grass and property of nearby businesses, including CT Beverage Mart and Savers. Members of the group crossed the businesses’ driveway entrances and exits, creating additional hazards for motorists and pedestrians.
Multiple riders were also observed traveling against the flow of traffic in the northbound lanes while traveling southbound on the Berlin Turnpike.
Investigators subsequently identified a witness who reported becoming engulfed by the group. The witness stated that his vehicle was nearly struck repeatedly and that he observed multiple near-miss motor vehicle collisions involving members of the ride-out group.
Officers responding to the incident attempted to take enforcement action against members of the group. The group disregarded the officers attempts and fled from the traffic stops.
The Newington Police Department is aggressively enforcing violations associated with illegal street takeovers and dangerous group rides. Additional arrest warrants have been granted and further arrests are imminent. The individuals identified thus far are from Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and Massachusetts.
The Newington Police Department will continue to aggressively enforce the law and hold individuals accountable for conduct that places motorists, pedestrians, businesses, and the community at risk.
Anyone with information regarding this incident or the identity of individuals who participated is asked to contact the Newington Police Department.
