A Connecticut man is facing multiple charges after striking a New York State Police vehicle in a work zone on I-287 in Harrison and leading troopers on a brief pursuit before being taken into custody for driving while intoxicated.
The incident happened around 4:05 a.m. on Friday, November 14. A sergeant from Troop T was stationed in the right lane of a work zone on the NYS Thruway eastbound when a 2018 Honda Accord sideswiped the rear driver side of his patrol vehicle. The driver, identified as 46-year-old David K. Wilkins of Stamford, Connecticut, did not stop and instead fled the scene.
The sergeant attempted to pull Wilkins over with lights and sirens, but the driver failed to comply. Two additional troopers joined the pursuit, which lasted about four minutes and stretched roughly three miles before Wilkins eventually stopped on the right shoulder. No injuries were reported.
Troopers said Wilkins showed clear signs of alcohol impairment and failed a field sobriety test. He refused to take a preliminary breath test and was arrested. Investigators later found multiple empty and partially full bottles of liquor in the backseat of his car.
In addition to driving while intoxicated, Wilkins is accused of fleeing the scene, driving with a suspended license, failing to exercise caution near an emergency vehicle, reckless driving, operating without insurance, and consuming alcohol or cannabis while driving.
The New York State Police are using this incident as a reminder that work zones require extra caution. Drivers are urged to slow down, pay attention, and avoid impaired driving. They also recommend using the free STOP-DWI Have a Plan app, which offers access to ride services and helps users plan a safe way home.
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