Motor vehicle chase results in officer struck, downed telephone pole and vehicle fire in Pittsfield

Pittsfield police say they have arrested Anthony Winters, 27, of Pittsfield after a motor vehicle chase Monday that left an officer struck by the car and a downed telephone pole causing a power outage and fire.

The police response began around 9:30 a.m., when officers stopped the motor vehicle for traffic violations in the area of ​​West Street and Edwin Street.

Authorities say Winters initially stopped the vehicle, but then fled and made contact with the officer who was fleeing. The officer was not injured and returned to work shortly after the incident, police said.

The pursuit continued on West Street and then on Jason Street when Winters’ vehicle lost control near the 200 block of Jason Street and collided with a telephone pole, police said.

Officials say the crash caused the pole to break, resulting in a power outage. The crash also caused the vehicle to catch fire, she added. Pittsfield Fire arrived on scene to extinguish the fire.

Jason Street was closed for several hours while power was restored.

Following the incident, Pittsfield police say they charged Winters with assault and battery with a dangerous weapon and numerous motor vehicle violations.

They add that Winters was treated for minor injuries at Berkshire Medical Center and released.