A suspected drunk driver traveling the wrong way on Route 37 was arrested Saturday after Toms River police ended a dangerous pursuit that officials say prevented what could have been a catastrophic crash.

According to the Toms River Policemen’s Benevolent Association, Patrolman Eric Nelson spotted a vehicle traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes of Route 37 on July 25. Nelson attempted to alert the driver while traveling in the proper lanes, but the vehicle continued driving the wrong way, reportedly coming dangerously close to several oncoming vehicles.

Police said the driver continued fleeing while remaining in the westbound lanes against traffic, prompting a pursuit. Patrolmen Robert King and Justin Barberi, who were returning from a special duty assignment and were already traveling westbound on Route 37, coordinated with Nelson and positioned their patrol vehicles to block the suspect’s path, safely bringing the pursuit to an end.

The driver was taken into custody and charged with Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) and second-degree eluding.

The Toms River PBA praised the officers for placing themselves in harm’s way to protect other motorists, noting that their quick actions likely prevented a serious tragedy. The organization also said Patrolman Nelson made six DWI arrests over the course of the weekend.

The charges are accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.