Car nearly hits police officers, teens

Two Fremont Police bicycle officers and a group of teenagers were almost struck by a car late Monday night.

Fremont Deputy Chief Steve Tellatin said the officers were talking at about 11:30 p.m. to a group of juveniles on Washington Street, just east of K Street.

“While they were talking to this group of youngsters, a 1989 Geo Tracker traveling westbound at more than 50 mph approached the officers and youngsters at a high rate of speed,” Tellatin said.

The officers used their flashlights and whistles to attempt to get the car to stop, but were unsuccessful. He said the vehicle drove straight at one officer who had to jump out of the way.

“The officers recognized the driver and after he sped away, he ran a stop sign,” Tellatin said.

He said one officer attempted to follow the vehicle on his bike. The vehicle eventually was found in the 300 block of Columbus Street.

Since the officers knew the ID of the driver, they waited for him.

Nathan D. Peterson, 28, of Fremont was charged with assault on a peace officer with a motor vehicle and use of a weapon to commit a felony, both Class III felonies; possession of a controlled substance without a prescription, a Class IV felony; flight to avoid arrest, a Class IV felony; and willful reckless driving, a Class III misdemeanor.

As of press time, Peterson remained in the Dodge County Jail. Bond has yet to be set and no future court dates were available.