CARTHAGE — State Police responded to a report of a hit-and-run crash on State Route 3 in the town of Champion, Jefferson County, at approximately 2:04 p.m. on April 12.
Upon arrival, Troopers located a 2020 GMC pickup truck operated by Rodney Clement, 66, of Carthage.
Clement reported that a blue sedan swerved directly in front of him and abruptly braked, causing his vehicle to rear-end the sedan.
Clement stated that the driver of the sedan exited the vehicle, and a physical altercation ensued before the sedan fled the scene.
A short time later, responding Troopers observed a blue 2012 Dodge Avenger matching the suspect vehicle’s description traveling on State Route 3.
When Troopers attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the driver failed to comply, and a pursuit was initiated.
The chase continued into Lewis County and concluded when the suspect vehicle pulled into a driveway on State Route 3 in the town of Harrisville.
The operator, identified as Henry Fleming, 50, of Watertown, was interviewed by Troopers and appeared to be intoxicated.
Fleming was taken into custody without further incident and transported to SP Carthage.
Fleming was charged with driving while intoxicated and multiple vehicle and traffic violations.
He was issued an appearance ticket and released.
The investigation remains ongoing.
