Drunk driver speeding around traffic on NJ highway shoulder hits cop

Luis Villalba
Luis Villalba Photo credit Clifton Police Department

NEW YORK (1010 WINS) -- A drunk 21-year-old man from Paterson struck a police officer after he got pulled over for driving in the shoulder, and then led police on a chase.

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Luis Villalba was driving his BMW on the shoulder of Route 21 North near the exit for Route 46 around 7 a.m. in order to avoid traffic.

Clifton Police Officer George Balkjy attempted to pull him over, but, while he walked toward the car, Villalba sped off — hitting the officer.

A different officer chased Villalba onto Route 46.

During the pursuit, the driver crashed into the center divider before spinning out into the shoulder and coming to a rest.

Police arrested the driver and passenger at gunpoint, though the passenger was later released without charges.

Officials charged Villalba with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, eluding arrest and drinking alcohol while driving.

Featured Image Photo Credit: Clifton Police Department