HOOKSETT, NH – On June 15, 2018 at approximately 8:51 p.m., Trooper Livingstone and Trooper Martineau were patrolling on Interstate 93 in the area of mile marker 40.2 when State Police received a report of a hazardous operator traveling south from the Canterbury area in a truck. Witnesses’ described the vehicle as being all over the road, almost hitting signs and other vehicles. Troopers were given a vehicle description along with a red on white temporary plate. Shortly after, information was relayed that the vehicle was possibly a stolen vehicle out of Laconia. Dispatch quickly confirmed the vehicle was stolen.
Shortly thereafter, Troopers Livingstone and Martineau activated their emergency lights and sirens, and attempted to stop the truck, however the truck did not stop and a pursuit ensued. The vehicle continued to operate at erratic speeds and was all over the roadway. Believing this was an impaired operator, Trooper Martineau along with additional Troopers continued to pursue the vehicle on I-93 south. The vehicle ultimately came to a stop just north of the Hooksett Tolls.
The operator was identified as, Joseph Costello, 26, of Belmont. Costello was taken into custody. He was the only occupant in the vehicle.
Costello is being charged with receiving stolen property, disobeying a police officer, reckless conduct, driving under the influence of drugs, possession of narcotics, resisting arrest and operating without a valid license.
Costello was transported to the Concord Hospital as a safety precaution due to a suspected impairment issue involving drugs.
Once medically cleared he was transported and held at the Merrimack County Jail where he refused bail pending an arraignment.
Anyone with information regarding the vehicle pursuit to contact Trooper Christopher Martineau at 603-223-4381 or via email at Christopher. Martineau @dos.nh.gov
