NORWICH – On Saturday, at about 5 p.m. the Norwich Police Department reported officers attempted to stop an UTV that was illegally driving on Mitchell Street in the City of Norwich.

The police pursued the vehicle in a brief chase that ended in a crash.

Michael Alan Bliss, 22, of New Berlin, was charged with driving while intoxicated and unlawfully fleeing a police officer misdemeanors.

According to the Norwich Police Department an officer observed an off-road side by side driving on Mitchell Street in the City of Norwich.

NPD Police Chief Reuben J. Roach stated, “Officers then attempted to stop the UTV, however it is alleged that the driver fled the scene with patrol cars following him with their lights and sirens on. Approximately one mile after the pursuit began, Mr. Bliss, flipped his UTV at the Rexford Street bridge as he attempted to make a right-hand turn onto State Highway 23. Mr. Bliss was taken into custody and found to be under the influence of alcohol.”

Roach also added, “I’m happy to report that no one was injured in this incident,”

Bliss was released and will appear in Norwich City Court at a later date.