Secaucus Police Arrest Two For North End Thefts Following High Speed Chase

Secaucus Police Chief Dennis Miler has announced the arrests of two individuals following a high speed chase on Route 3 on Wednesday, February 7.   According to the Chief, at 10:37 yesterday morning, a Secaucus resident informed police that two males in ski-masks were committing thefts from residences in the “north end” of town. 

While heading to the scene, Chief Miller says Police Officer Kasey Kelly “could hear the loud roar of a vehicle’s engine from several blocks away, before he could even see the suspects’ 2005 black Honda Accord.”   The suspects’ vehicle then drove at excessively high rates of speed, disregarded traffic control devices and drove opposite of the flow of traffic toward Route 3 West.

In a press release provided by the Police Department, Chief Miller states, “The 2005 black Honda Accord struck a curb and blew out a tire and the Honda was driving at over 80 mph on the rim on Route 3 West.  Due to the wanton disregard for the safety of the motoring public and the reckless manner which the vehicle was operating, Police Officer Kelly pursued the vehicle.  The vehicle continued to drive recklessly, until it crashed into the rear of a FedEx truck the area of Route 3 West and the Main Street exit in Clifton.” 

Before the crash, the 19-year old driver, Jordan Terry of Elmwood Park, ran across all lanes of Route 3 West and crossed over the concrete barrier.  He was hit by an oncoming vehicle  on Route 3 East.  He only suffered minor injuries and was placed under arrest.   

Chief Miller adds that the vehicle’s passenger, 19-year old Eliel Ortiz of Garfield, fled the scene and was subsequently arrested by officers of the Secaucus Police and New Jersey State Police in the weeds a short distance from the vehicle. 

Police recovered stolen property which had been taken from the homes of Secaucus residents.  The Honda Accord also had a stolen license plate.    

“I am thankful that nobody was truly injured in this incident,” Chief Dennis Miller said. “This incident is another example that the Secaucus Police Department will respond immediately to resident reports of criminal activity and apprehend criminals by lawful means.  I want to thank the New Jersey State Police, Clifton and East Rutherford Police Departments along with the Passaic County Sheriff’s Department for their assistance.”

Jordan Terry and Eliel Ortiz were each charged with obstructing the administration of law, resisting arrest, four counts of theft, receiving stolen property and conspiracy to commit theft.  Terry was also charged with eluding and was taken to the Hudson County Jail in Kearny.  Ortiz was released, pending his appearance in court.                                   

These charges are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.