PERTH AMBOY, 3/19/2024 – At 5:53 pm on March 17, 2024, the Perth Amboy Police Department (PAPD) received multiple 911 calls reporting unauthorized vehicle racing and drifting at the base of the Victory Bridge, specifically at the intersection of State Highway 35/Convery Boulevard and Smith Street. Officers were immediately dispatched to the scene, where an off-duty PAPD officer already present reported a large crowd had gathered in what appeared to be a “takeover” style event.
The coordinated response allowed officers to arrive simultaneously from multiple directions, with the first units on the scene by 5:57 pm. Numerous vehicles were stopped, leading to the issuance of over a dozen summonses, with additional citations expected in the coming days. One vehicle was impounded and is subject to civil forfeiture proceedings.
Follow-up investigations have confirmed the event was pre-planned, with similar activities reported in several jurisdictions earlier that day. Deyvi Navarette-Menjivar, 21, of Plainfield, was charged with Disorderly Conduct and Interference of Transportation (Third Degree Crime) and transported to the Middlesex County Adult Correctional Center awaiting his first court appearance in Middlesex County Superior Court.
During the event, two vehicles were hit by debris, and a minor accident involving a fleeing vehicle was reported. There were no injuries, and normal traffic flow was restored by 6:10 pm. The investigation has revealed that, currently, none of the identified perpetrators are city residents of Perth Amboy. The Perth Amboy Police are actively working to identify all individuals and vehicles involved.
Our intelligence division is actively conducting investigations into this matter. We encourage the public to reach out to Detective Sgt. Pineiro (732) 324-3813 or text TIPS to 888777 (NIXLE) with any further information or video evidence related to this incident. The Perth Amboy Police Department emphasizes that prompt reporting can significantly aid in effectively resolving such incidents.
