Two Arrested After Police Pursuit in West Haven

Stolen firearm recovered during apprehension of Bridgeport residents

Apr. 18, 2026 at 2:20am

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An extreme close-up photograph of a handgun's metal slide and trigger, lit dramatically with harsh flash lighting against a black background, conveying a sense of danger and urgency without depicting any actual violence.The recovery of a stolen firearm during a high-speed police pursuit in West Haven raises concerns about the flow of illegal guns across state lines.Bridgeport Today

Two Bridgeport residents were arrested after a high-speed police pursuit in West Haven, Connecticut that ended with the recovery of a stolen firearm. Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr., 23, a convicted felon on probation, was charged with stealing a firearm, criminal possession of a pistol/revolver, and other weapons offenses after allegedly discarding a loaded Glock 23 handgun with a high-capacity magazine. The vehicle's operator, Keilonda Johnson, 27, was charged with engaging police in pursuit, reckless driving, and other related offenses.

Why it matters

This incident highlights ongoing concerns about illegal firearms, high-speed pursuits, and the challenges law enforcement faces in addressing gun violence and property crimes in Connecticut's urban areas. The recovery of the stolen handgun also raises questions about the flow of illegal firearms across state lines.

The details

According to police, a West Haven officer patrolling on Elm Street identified a vehicle with a misused registration plate around 2:32 a.m. on April 11, 2026. The vehicle's operator, Keilonda Johnson, fled at high speed when the officer attempted to stop the car, driving recklessly and crossing into oncoming traffic. Officers terminated the pursuit to protect public safety, but located the vehicle shortly after parked along Interstate 95. In the immediate area, they recovered a loaded Glock 23 .40 caliber handgun with a 31-round magazine that was confirmed stolen from Georgia. Police determined the gun had been possessed and discarded by Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr., a convicted felon on probation who is prohibited from owning firearms.

  • The incident occurred around 2:32 a.m. on April 11, 2026 in West Haven, Connecticut.
  • Nazario and Johnson appeared in Milford Superior Court following their arrests.

The players

Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr.

A 23-year-old Bridgeport resident who is a convicted felon, currently on probation, and classified as a deadly weapons offender. He was charged with stealing a firearm, criminal possession of a pistol/revolver, criminal possession of ammunition and illegal possession of a large capacity magazine.

Keilonda Johnson

A 27-year-old Bridgeport resident who was the operator of the vehicle that fled from police. She was charged with engaging police in pursuit, misuse of registration plates, unregistered motor vehicle, interfering with police, reckless endangerment, and reckless driving.

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What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Luis Eduardo Nazario Jr. to be released on bail.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement, community groups, and policymakers to address the flow of illegal guns, reduce high-speed chases, and improve public safety in Connecticut's cities.