3 arrested after Massachusetts State Trooper dragged by car during traffic stop in Fall River
FALL RIVER - Three people have been arrested after a Massachusetts State Police trooper was dragged by a car in Fall River early Tuesday morning.
At about 12:30 a.m., a trooper pulled over a Honda Accord being driven by 27-year-old Keysh Resto Alejandro of New Bedford at the intersection of Pleasant and 17th Streets.
Alejandro told the trooper she did not have her license on her, and the vehicle belonged to someone else. State Police say 22-year-old Steven Melendez of New Bedford was in the passenger seat.
The trooper informed them their vehicle would be towed and to call to have someone pick them up.
A short time later, 41-year-old Maria Melendez Rivera, the mother of the passenger, arrived at the scene in a Hyundai, saying she was the owner of the Honda Accord the trooper stopped.
When the trooper found out Steven Melendez was the subject of three warrants, including one in connection with a shooting, the trooper attempted to arrest him.
State Police said Melendez "broke free and ran into the Hyundai." His mother and Alejandro were also inside the car.
The trooper attempted to pull Steven Melendez out of the vehicle, but Maria Melendez Rivera, who was driving, sped off at a high rate of speed. The trooper was dragged for about a block. He was taken to the hospital and returned to work the rest of his shift.
Arrest warrants were obtained and the three were arrested later on Tuesday.
Maria Melendez Rivera and Steven Melendez face several charges including assault and battery on a police officer.
Keysh Resto Alejandro is charged with accessory after the fact and interfering with a police officer.
