Massachusetts State Police Make Arrest After Wrong-Way Driver Leads to Highway Pursuit

A 26-year-old Massachusetts man is facing several charges after allegedly driving the wrong way on a major highway early Friday morning, prompting a police pursuit across multiple towns. Authorities identified the driver as Saul Joseph Jr. of Beverly. According to the Massachusetts State Police, the incident began shortly after 4:00 a.m. when troopers assigned to the Holden Barracks responded to several emergency calls reporting a wrong-way driver on Interstate 290. The suspect’s vehicle was seen traveling east in the westbound lanes near the 27.2-mile marker, putting other drivers at significant risk.

High-Speed Pursuit Through Marlborough and Hudson

State Police quickly responded and traveled in the correct direction on I-290 to locate the vehicle. Troopers successfully spotted the suspect’s car and attempted to initiate a traffic stop. However, the driver failed to comply and exited the highway, continuing southbound on Route 85 in Marlborough while traveling in the correct lane. Despite police commands to stop, the vehicle kept moving, prompting state police to initiate a pursuit. The chase led officers through Marlborough into the neighboring town of Hudson. The pursuit was briefly discontinued for safety reasons after the suspect turned onto Technology Drive, a commercial area with limited access points.

Suspect Apprehended in Hudson Parking Lot

After coordinating with local police departments, state police were staged along Route 85 in anticipation of the suspect’s return. A short time later, the vehicle reappeared and eventually pulled into a parking lot on Washington Street in Hudson. Troopers surrounded the car and took the driver, Saul Joseph Jr., into custody without further resistance. No injuries or crashes were reported during the incident.

Multiple Charges, Including OUI-Drugs

Joseph now faces multiple criminal charges related to the early morning incident. He has been charged with failure to stop for police, negligent operation of a motor vehicle, and operating under the influence of drugs. Authorities did not disclose the specific substances involved but confirmed impairment was suspected at the time of arrest. The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges may be considered as law enforcement reviews footage, witness statements, and toxicology results. It is unclear whether Joseph had any prior criminal or driving infractions. The Massachusetts State Police emphasized the danger such behavior presents to the public. Wrong-way driving is a serious safety hazard that often leads to deadly crashes, particularly at high speeds and during low-visibility hours like early morning. Joseph is expected to be arraigned in a local district court. The court date and further legal proceedings have not yet been announced.