New Bedford man leads police on chase from Rochester to downtown

State Police, New Bedford Police, and other local departments were involved in a lengthy pursuit of a suspect operating a 2004 Chevrolet Blazer that resulted in arrest.

The pursuit started in Rochester when the suspect was observed striking his own vehicle with a hatchet. Rochester police responded, the suspect entered the vehicle and a pursuit ensued. During the pursuit the suspect was waving the hatchet and a knife out the window. The suspect eventually came to a stop in downtown New Bedford where he was apprehended.

He is identified as RANDALL W. HARRISON, 50, of New Bedford. The suspect is currently being evaluated at St. Luke’s Hospital. State Police will process his arrest upon his release.

In addition to the hatchet and knife, the suspect was in possession of butane fluid and a lighter. According the pursuing units, the suspect reportedly doused himself with the butane fluid.