Police are still investigating the terrifying NYC high-speed chase between a Range Rover and a group of bikers that has left one man paralyzed and in a medically induced coma.
But on Wednesday, the motorcyclist who is being blamed for sparking the encounter was charged with reckless driving after he slowed down in front of the Range Rover in what prosecutors believe was an intentional collision.
Christopher Cruz, 28, of Passaic, New Jersey, declined to comment as he was released on $1,500 bail, facing misdemeanor charges that also include unlawful imprisonment. His attorney, H. Benjamin Perez, said his client denied all the allegations.
So far, Cruz is the only person charged criminally in the encounter, which was caught on the helmet camera worn by another biker.
Here is the shocking video. We warn you, it may be a bit disturbing for some:
The Manhattan district attorney’s office is still deciding whether or not to prosecute a second person arrested, Allen Edwards, 42, who surrendered to police on Tuesday.
And although Cruz has only been charged with reckless driving, his attorney is clearing his name in the beating of the SUV driver, Alexian Lien, who was taken to the hospital for stitches in his face.
“The bottom line is that my client had nothing to do with what happened to this gentleman and doesn’t know the people who attacked the driver,” Perez said. “He never left the location of the accident, and he at no time ever assaulted this man – or his vehicle, for that matter.”
We’ll keep you updated on the latest in this bizarre case.
SOURCE: Daily Mail | PHOTO CREDIT: NY CBS
