Maine Man Taken Into Custody Following Fast-Paced Chase in Stolen Vehicle, According to New Hampshire Authorities

A Maine resident is facing serious charges after New Hampshire law enforcement said he led officers on a dangerous high-speed pursuit while intoxicated early Sunday morning. The incident began around 1:35 a.m. when a concerned driver called 911 reporting a vehicle swerving erratically on I-95 South near Portsmouth.

State troopers soon located the suspect driving a 2014 Ford Fusion in North Hampton. When officers activated their emergency lights, the driver accelerated instead of stopping, initiating a prolonged chase at extreme speeds.

The driver was identified as 20-year-old Thomas O. M. Leonard from Portland, Maine. Leonard reportedly ignored traffic exits, transitioned onto Route 101 West, and weaved across multiple lanes, creating a highly hazardous situation for other motorists.

The pursuit intensified in Brentwood, where spike strips were deployed, damaging the vehicles tires. Despite this, Leonard continued driving toward Eppings Exit 7, ultimately losing control, crashing into a traffic island, and hitting a sign, which rendered the car inoperable.

Leonard attempted to flee on foot into a nearby commercial lot. Troopers deployed a K-9 unit, which successfully apprehended him. Authorities confirmed he was under the influence and that his drivers license was already suspended. The stolen vehicle had been reported missing from Saco, Maine.

He now faces multiple charges, including felony reckless conduct, grand theft of a motor vehicle, multiple DUI counts, resisting arrest, and property damage. Leonard is being held at Rockingham County Jail pending a court appearance scheduled for Monday. Investigations are ongoing, and additional charges may follow.

Author: Chloe Ramirez