On April 14, 2024, Officer Melendez was dispatched to 203 North 2nd Street on a report of a motor vehicle accident with the occupants fleeing the scene. Upon arrival, witnesses stated that the driver struck several parked cars and began walking away toward Central Avenue. A description of the driver was provided to officers and the driver was immediately located several blocks away. The vehicle’s registration matched the individual who was detained, and he further admitted to driving the vehicle. The driver, now identified as Stalin Luperciovalarezo, 26 of Newark, failed the on-scene Field Sobriety Test and was subsequently placed under arrest. At police headquarters, he refused to submit to samples of his breath. He was issued several citations and released on a summons to a responsible party.
