Photo: Douglas Sacha / Moment / Getty Images
A high-speed police chase in Glenmont ended dramatically on Tuesday (September 16) when the suspects drove onto a soccer field at Elm Avenue Park. The chase began at a Walmart on Route 9W after police responded to a reported theft. The suspects, driving a blue Ford Escape, fled the scene, leading officers on a three-mile pursuit.
According to CBS6 Albany, the chase concluded when the SUV veered off Feura Bush Road, rolled down an embankment, and came to a stop on the active soccer fields. Witnesses reported that about 20-25 children were playing soccer at the time, and parents and coaches quickly evacuated the area. No injuries were reported.
The suspects, identified as April Mahoney, 49, of Troy, Roger Chapman, 36, and Jessica Perry, 41, both of Albany, abandoned the vehicle and fled into nearby woods. Police apprehended all three shortly after. News10 ABC reported that Mahoney and Chapman were remanded to Albany County Jail, while Perry was released under supervision. They face multiple charges related to the incident and other thefts in the area.
The chase has sparked criticism, with retired Troy Police Captain John Cooney questioning the decision to pursue the suspects through a populated area. He emphasized that chases should be a last resort due to the potential danger involved.
The Bethlehem Soccer Club expressed gratitude to the police for ensuring the safety of the children and announced that regular games would continue as scheduled. A preliminary hearing for the suspects is set for September 22, with a court appearance scheduled for October 21.