New Haven Man, 39, Who Pointed 'Stolen' Gun At Car Crash Scene, Charged With DUI, Threatening: NHPD

NEW HAVEN, CT — It was just after 11:30 p.m. Friday night when cops were called to the intersection of Howe Street and MLK Jr. Boulevard for a reported car crash.

While en route, dispatchers told officers that the caller reported the driver of an involved vehicle "pulled a gun and pointed it at them."

That driver was identified as Manuel Avila, 39, of New Haven. Avila was detained by officers and failed a field sobriety test with a breathalyzer showing he was "almost twice the legal limit," police said.

Video footage of the incident "showed Avila walking away from the scene before returning," police said. After he was taken into custody, officers checked the area where Avila was seen walking and found a handgun. A check of the serial number showed it had been reported as stolen, police said.

Avila was charged with driving under the influence, first-degree threatening, with a hazard to terrorize, three counts of second-degree breach of peace, carrying a pistol without a permit, possession of a stolen firearm, and criminal possession of a pistol, police said, and court records show.

Avila posted a $150,000 surety bond and was released from custody, judicial records show. He's due back in court on Sept. 10.