Police chase through Strafford, Somersworth ends in standoff, arrest

DURHAM - A Belmont man was taken into custody following a pursuit through several area towns that ended in a multi-hour standoff.

The confrontation with police unfolded around on Saturday when New Hampshire State Police received information to be on the lookout for a 2017 Dodge Ram 3500 in connection with an ongoing investigation in Belmont. Around 9:45 p.m., Troopers learned the Strafford Police Department had located the vehicle and was attempting to conduct a traffic stop in Strafford, however the driver did not stop and a pursuit was initiated, according to a Dept. of Safety press release on Sunday..

State Troopers responded to the area and led the ongoing pursuit as the driver of the Dodge traveled through multiple communities, including Somersworth, where a minor passenger was let out of the vehicle, police say. The minor was not physically injured in the pursuit and was brought by police to a family member, while the pursuit continued.

Tire deflation devices were used multiple times before the suspect ultimately stopped on Route 4 in Durham, however, the driver refused to get out of the vehicle. The road was then closed, and a prolonged standoff ensued while Troopers negotiated.

Ultimately, the driver exited the vehicle and was taken into custody before being identified as Scott E. Newcomb, 55, of Belmont. He was later released to the custody of the Belmont Police Department in connection with their investigation. Newcomb will be charged by the State Police with kidnapping, reckless conduct, and disobeying an officer in connection with the pursuit and standoff.

Newcomb's court date is currently pending and no booking photo is available at this time. Anyone with information that may assist the ongoing investigation is asked to contact Trooper First Class Nathan J. Sleight at Nathan.J.Sleight@dos.nh.gov.