Driver Sought In Toms River Hit-Run Turns Himself In
TOMS RIVER, N.J. (CBSNewYork/AP) -- A man who was being sought by police in New Jersey following a hit-and-run accident and an alleged attempt to mow down an off-duty police officer has turned himself in.
According to authorities, 54-year-old Robert Dechert called police Monday morning after reading news stories that said he was wanted in Toms River.
Around 9:30 p.m. Sunday, police said Dechert was driving east on Route 37 in Toms River when he hit another vehicle and fled the scene. The bumper and license plate from Dechert's car were left behind.
Seaside Heights Police Officer Erik Hershey, who was off-duty but in uniform, witnessed the crash and followed Dechert to a restaurant where he parked, police said.
When Hershey approached the car, police said Dechert accelerated rapidly at the officer and tried to hit him. Hershey was able to jump out of the way and Dechert fled the wrong way on Route 37, authorities said.
Dechert, of Lakehurst, faces charges of attempted murder by vehicle and numerous motor vehicle violations. Bail was set at $500,000.
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