November 13, 2023
Howell Township — On the evening of November 11th, 2023, Howell Township patrol units responded to Longhorn Steakhouse in reference to a disorderly person inside the establishment. Restaurant staff described the male as erratic and confrontational. They were unsure if the male was under the influence of narcotics or alcohol. When patrol units arrived, the subject, 38-year-old Zachariah Hartman of Toms River, attempted to flee the scene, subsequently striking a police cruiser. Hartman then eluded police through the township which resulted in him striking two other Howell police cruisers, disabling one.
Hartman continued onward with police following through several municipalities. These towns including Lakewood Township, Jackson Township, Freehold Township, Freehold Borough, Millstone Township, Plumstead Township and Colts Neck Township. In total, the pursuit lasted over 2 hours and ranged approximately 100 miles. He was eventually apprehended in Jackson Township without incident.
No injuries were sustained as a result of the pursuit. Hartman was criminally charged with 2 counts of eluding, 2 counts of aggravated assault and 1 count of obstruction. He was transported to Monmouth County Correctional Institute where he was lodged pending his detention hearing.
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