For Immediate Release
Posted: June 15, 2020

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State Police cruiser struck, subsequent arrest for DWI, State Police cruiser struck, subsequent arrest for DWI

On June 15, 2020 Troopers were conducting aircraft speed enforcement on Route 16 northbound in Rochester. At approximately 1200 hours Sergeant Christopher Storm, of the Special Enforcement Unit was parked in the breakdown lane on a motor vehicle stop with his emergency lights activated when his cruiser was struck on the driver's door by a

2012 Hyundai Elantra
color: black

This same vehicle had been reported as all over the roadway on Route 16 minutes before crashing into the cruiser. The vehicle did not stop after striking the State Police cruiser and continued north on Route 16. Troopers Chris Ball and Nathan Sleight were able to catch up to the vehicle and get it stopped at the Rochester tolls. The driver was identified as

Brian Theriault Age: 28
Northwood, NH

after a roadside investigation Theriault was arrested for Driving While Intoxicated and Conduct after an Accident. Sergeant Storm was transported to Wentworth Douglas Hospital where he was treated and released with minor injuries.

Theriault was processed and bailed from Rochester Police Department on charges of Driving While Intoxicated, 2nd Offense, Conduct After an Accident, Operating After Suspension and Failure to Move Over. Theriault is due to be arraigned on August 12, 2020 at Rochester Circuit Court.

Anyone who witnessed the crash or the operation of this vehicle prior to the crash is asked to contact Trooper Christopher Ball at 603 223-8891.

The NH State Police Special Enforcement Unit regularly interdicts elevated speed violations and other aggressive driving behaviors. Its members patrol across the state often utilizing the State Police aircraft during commuter traffic periods and holiday travel times with the goal of keeping New Hampshire's roadways safe for all residents and visitors.

photo of damaged NH state cruiser