Rottjer
Shelton police Tuesday announced the arrest of three people in connection to a “Valley New Year” incident in which a man was thrown off the Derby-Shelton bridge.
Gregory Rottjer, 25, of Derby, is charged with attempted murder, first-degree assault, and first-degree reckless endangerment.
Matthew Dorso, 27, of Ansonia, is charged with third-degree assault.
Jennifer Hannum, 22, of Derby, is charged with interfering with an officer.
According to a prepared statement from police, Rottjer was having an argument on the bridge with Hannum, his girlfriend, about 12:50 a.m. Nov. 23 (the morning of Thanksgiving).
The male victim, who was not identified, and his brother (also not identified) attempted to make sure Hannum was OK, according to police.
Rottjer and Dorso started fighting with the brothers. Police said Rottjer threw the victim off the bridge and into the icy water 45 feet below the bridge.
“Rottjer and Dorso then fled the scene with Hannum,” police said in a statement.
Hannum lied to police during the investigation, authorities allege.
Dorso
Hannum
“The victim is still recovering from injuries sustained from the fall. Credit is due to the police, fire, and EMS personnel who acted swiftly and courageously to assist the victim,” police said.
Rottjer was held on a $250,000 bond and is scheduled to appear in court Dec. 12.
Dorso was released on a promise to appear in court Dec. 22.
Hannum was released on a $1,000 bond pending a Dec. 22 court date.
“Valley New Year” refers to the evening before Thanksgiving, where bars are full of young people drinking.
