This morning at approximately 10:55am an unmarked Police vehicle was struck from behind while traveling north on N. Stiles St near intersection with W. Henry St.

The Officer involved immediately notified Central Dispatch of the crash and checked on the occupants of the other vehicle. Upon determining that they were not injured, he began to collect their information for the crash investigation.

One of the vehicle occupants, later identified as 19-year-old Mario Rodriguez-Ramirez of Linden, refused to provide identification and attempted to leave the scene. The Officer detained Rodriguez-Ramirez and prevented him from leaving the scene, at which time he became combative.

Additional Officers arrived on the scene and Rodriguez-Ramirez was arrested without further incident.

The Officer involved in the crash sustained minor injuries and was evaluated by Linden Fire Department personnel at the scene. A Supervisor assisting in the arrest was also injured. He was transported to RWJBH Rahway Hospital with minor injuries.

“This incident shows how quickly a “minor” incident can escalate into a serious one,” said Police Chief David Hart. “Officers face this kind of danger every day, and we are grateful that the Officers involved were not seriously injured.”

The driver of the vehicle was released from the scene without incident. Rodriguez-Ramirez is charged with 3rd degree resisting arrest and aggravated assault against a Police Officer, as well as associated lesser charges. He was remanded to the Essex County Jail pending a scheduled appearance in Superior Court.

These criminal charges are mere accusations. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.