Police in Newark are reporting the arrest of Mr. Norven Dee Alcius, 19, of Union, who faces a charge of receiving stolen property after fleeing a vehicle that struck two pedestrians today.
“Sadly, the vehicle that struck the two victims was reported stolen after being left running and unattended,” Director O’Hara said.
“This incident highlights the problem we’re having, not only in Newark but across the region, as driver complacency is leading to an increase in motor vehicle theft.”
Police said at approximately 9 a.m. today, police responded to the area of Broad Street and Market Street on a call of two pedestrians struck.
The victims were transported to University Hospital for treatment. They both are reportedly in serious but stable condition.
Alcius, the driver, exited the vehicle after it struck the two victims, who were both at a bus stop. He was apprehended by responding officers without further incident.
The vehicle, a black 2021 Mazda CX-9, was reported stolen yesterday at 10:15 p.m. after it was left running and unattended in the 800 block of Broad Street.
So far this year, 534 vehicles have been stolen after being left running and unattended. This is an increase of 68 percent from 2020, when 263 vehicles were stolen due to driver complacency.
“It only takes seconds for a thief to steal a vehicle left running with the keys in the ignition or with the key fob inside,” Director O’Hara added.
“It is tragic that such complacency creates the opportunity not just for auto theft, but more serious crimes that can cause significant harm in the community.
Drivers must be responsible for securing their vehicles.”
These charges are merely accusations.
This suspect is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.