New York Man Arrested After High-Speed Shootout on I-81
Suspect's four-year-old daughter was with him during the incident
BRIDGEWATER, Va. — Police have identified the man responsible for Monday’s high-speed chase along I-81.
According to a media release from Bridgewater Police Department (BPD) Chief Philip Read, the incident occurred Monday, January 27, 2025.
The BPD was alerted via license plate reader that Esmeraldo Martinez De La Cruz, a suspect who had recently committed a home invasion and stolen a truck in Maryland, was currently within their jurisdiction.
De La Cruz, of the Bronx, New York, was located by officers in the area of Dinkel Avenue and Hickory Lane. With him in the truck was his four-year-old daughter.
After officials attempted a traffic stop, De La Cruz, 34, fled and continued on I-81 at speeds in excess of 110 mph.
According to the media statement, De La Cruz began firing a officers during the pursuit.
The chase temporarily closed down parts of the interstate, causing traffic delays Monday afternoon.
De La Cruz was eventually taken into custody near mile marker 300 in the area of Strasburg.
No injuries were reported. The four-year-old was later reunited with family.
De La Cruz was charged with the following offenses:
§ 46.2-817: Felony Eluding
§ 18.2-371.1: Reckless disregard for life of a child
§ 18.2-25/18.2-31: Attempted Aggravated Murder of Law Enforcement (3 counts)
§ 18.2-53.1: Use of a firearm in commission of a felony
The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is asked to contact BPD at 540-828-2611 #2.