A pursuit in Westport ended with the driver almost ending up in a river and two officers injured.
Westport Police officers were dispatched to the OptiCare on Post Road East at 9:30 a.m. on Wednesday to check on a man who "appeared disoriented", police said.
While officers were on their way to the store, the man, identified as Tracy Edwards, had stolen a pair of glasses and left the story. Westport Police officers saw Edwards speeding out of the parking lot in a gray Pontiac as they arrived, police said.
Police engaged in a short pursuit as Edwards sped west down Post Road East, but stopped when police determined the chase was too dangerous.
A short time later, police were notified that Edwards was located on Imperial Avenue, where he crashed off the road near the river, Westport Police said.
Edwards resisted arrest by punching and kicking officers. One officer was injured in the face, while the other injured their hand. Officers were able to get him under control and later found about one ounce of PCP in his car.
The 44-year-old suspect was transported to Norwalk Hospital for behavioral evaluation and released.
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Edwards was charged with larceny, engaging police in pursuit, two counts for assaulting an officer, possession of hallucinogens, reckless driving, evading responsibility of a motor vehicle crash, operating a vehicle under suspension.
His bond was set at $100,000.
