Driver Stabs Conn. Police Officer in Neck During Traffic Stop Clash

By Mark Price

Source The Charlotte Observer

A routine traffic stop turned violent for a police officer when the uncooperative driver pulled a knife and stabbed him in the neck, according to investigators in Connecticut.

Officer Tim Wright survived the attack — after being rushed to a hospital by a sergeant who arrived minutes later, Connecticut State Police said in a news release.

The suspect, Tyler Wilmot, was captured with the help of a Taser and is being held under a $3 million bond, officials said.

The stabbing happened around 1:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 3, when Wilmot’s Jeep was stopped on North Main Street in Woodbury for “failing to properly display a registration plate,” police said.

“As Officer Wright exited his patrol vehicle, it became apparent that the operator was verbally aggressive and refusing to comply with verbal commands,” officials said.

“A physical altercation ensued, during which the operator stabbed Officer Wright in the neck with a knife. As this was occurring, another Woodbury Officer, Officer John Covello, arrived on scene,” according to police.” The operator attempted to flee on foot. However Officer Covello was able to successfully deploy his Taser, take control of the suspect and place him in handcuffs.”

Covello then tried to aid the downed officer. However, it became clear an ambulance might not arrive in a timely manner, officials said.

“Recognizing the immediate need for a higher level of medical care, Woodbury Resident Trooper Sergeant Matthew Costella transported Officer Wright to Waterbury Hospital to expedite emergency medical attention,” officials said.

“Officer Wright is in stable condition at this time and is expected to make a full recovery.”

The 31-year-old suspect, who lives in Woodbury, was also hospitalized “as a result of the Taser deployment,” and later discharged into the custody of police.

He has been charged with: