Man Arrested for Hit-and-Run Involving East Haven Fire Engine in February – On March 26, 2025, Joshua Bethke, a 38-year-old East Haven man, was arrested in connection with a hit-and-run incident involving an East Haven fire engine that occurred in February. The arrest follows a thorough investigation into the incident, which left the fire engine with significant front-end damage and prompted a search for the responsible driver.
The incident took place on February 11, 2025, at approximately 6:30 p.m., when the fire engine was responding to a structure fire in the Foxon area. The fire engine, equipped with sirens and lights, was traveling on Hemingway Avenue when it was struck by a Scion TC, driven by Bethke, who reportedly turned directly into the path of the fire truck. The collision resulted in visible damage to the fire engine’s front end.
Eyewitnesses at the scene, including East Haven fire officials, reported seeing the driver of the Scion flee the scene immediately after the crash. According to the police, the driver continued northbound on Hemingway Avenue before turning west onto Edward Street, evading further interaction with the authorities and emergency personnel at the time of the incident.
The police investigation into the hit-and-run involved a search for evidence that could link the fleeing driver to the collision. A vehicle with damage consistent with the fire engine’s reported impact was located, and further examination revealed that a side mirror cover found at the scene of the crash belonged to a vehicle registered to Bethke. Despite this evidence, when initially questioned, Bethke denied any involvement in the incident, and authorities continued their investigation.
With mounting evidence pointing to Bethke’s involvement, the East Haven Police Department filed an arrest warrant for him. On March 26, Bethke turned himself in to the authorities, where he was officially charged with evading responsibility, which resulted in property damage.
Following his arrest, Bethke was released on a promise to appear in court. He is scheduled to appear in court on April 3, 2025, to face the charges. The charge of evading responsibility with resulting property damage reflects the serious nature of the offense, especially given that the fire engine was on a public emergency response when the crash occurred.
The hit-and-run incident highlights the dangers faced by emergency personnel and vehicles while responding to emergencies, as well as the importance of drivers adhering to traffic laws, especially when emergency vehicles are in operation. The quick response by authorities and the collection of evidence from the crash scene led to the swift identification of the suspect, ensuring accountability for the damage caused to public property and for the actions of the driver involved.
As the investigation continues, the case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the consequences of leaving the scene of an accident.
