Massachusetts State Police K9 “Neko” locates driver who fled a crash

“On Sunday, October 6th around 4:20 a.m., troopers from the State Police Danvers Barracks responded to a crash where a vehicle struck a utility pole on Route 1 in Saugus.

The crash caused a widespread power outage. When troopers arrived on scene, witnesses reported that the lone occupant and operator had fled on foot. Troopers requested K9 assistance and Trooper Dan Purtell of the K9 Unit responded.

On arrival, Trooper Purtell deployed K9 Neko using the vehicle’s driver’s side floor mat as a scent article. K9 Neko quickly acquired a scent and tracked for approximately a quarter-mile along Route 1 when he located the suspect lying prone and hiding in high grass along the highway.

The suspect was detained and after a brief investigation was placed under arrest by Trooper Louis Williams of the Danvers Barracks. The suspect was transported to the Danvers Barracks where he was booked for OUI alcohol and leaving the scene of a property damage crash. Troopers on scene were also assisted by Saugus Fire and Saugus Police Department.”