Somerville man charged with aggravated assault on Newark police officer during drag race stop

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NEWARK, New Jersey – An 18-year-old man from Somerville was arrested for allegedly injuring a Newark police officer while trying to flee the scene of a drag racing incident early Sunday morning.

Newark Public Safety Director Emanuel Miranda, Sr. announced the arrest of Wyatt Bowden, who faces charges including aggravated assault on a police officer, escape and possession of a weapon (vehicle). The incident occurred at approximately 1:02 a.m. at Frelinghuysen Boulevard and Miller Street, where officers responded to reports of erratic driving.

According to the police, when the police teams arrived, citizens started to flee the area. Bowden reportedly ran over a Newark officer’s foot while trying to flee in his vehicle. While the injured police officer was taken to University Hospital and received treatment, it was learned that their condition was stable.

“This arrest should alert brave motorists that the streets of Newark are completely off-limits to anyone planning to drag race or perform dangerous driving stunts here,” said Director Miranda, emphasizing the risk such activities pose to public safety.

Bowden was taken into custody at the scene and remains in police custody as authorities continue their investigation. Police warned that careless driving incidents would be responded to with swift and harsh sanctions.