High-speed chase through Somersworth ends in crash, arrest

SOMERSWORTH — A high-speed pursuit resulted in the arrest of a wanted driver after his vehicle crashed in Somersworth on Thursday night.

At around 8:20 p.m., New Hampshire State Trooper Jacob Benjamin of Troop A spotted a Dodge Challenger traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph in a 30 mph zone on Route 108.

When Trooper Benjamin attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver, identified as 42-year-old Michael P.

Ruest of Rochester, failed to comply and engaged in reckless driving.

During the chase, Ruest maneuvered his vehicle onto the right shoulder to overtake another car, causing a collision that led to minor property damage.

No injuries were reported from this incident.

The pursuit continued until Ruest lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a fence near Willard Road along Route 108, disabling the Challenger.

Ruest was taken into custody at the scene.

Neither he nor his adult female passenger sustained injuries in the crash.

Authorities charged Ruest with multiple offenses, including reckless conduct, reckless operation, disobeying a police officer, transportation of a controlled drug, conduct after an accident, criminal mischief, and a solid line violation.

Furthermore, Ruest was found to be wanted by the Lee Police Department for possession of controlled drugs.

Ruest was denied bail and is currently held at the Strafford County Department of Corrections pending arraignment.

The Somersworth Police Department assisted state troopers at the scene of the crash.

Investigators are seeking additional information regarding this incident.

Witnesses or individuals with information are urged to contact Trooper Jacob Benjamin at (603) 271-3636.