BEDFORD – Paul Conners, 72, of Nashua, was taken into custody on Aug. 2 for allegedly driving the wrong way on Interstate 293 and the F.E. Everett Turnpike.

According to State Police, at 3:42 a.m., troopers responded to a report of a Nissan Altima that was traveling southbound on the northbound side of I-293, near exit 5, in Manchester.

At the time, Sgt. Brendan Tallon was searching for the vehicle on the Turnpike. Two minutes later, he realized the vehicle was coming directly at him.

With only seconds to react, Tallon activated his emergency lights and used his patrol car to block the lane and protect other drivers.

Connors stopped the vehicle and was placed under arrest.

He has been charged with reckless conduct, reckless operation and negligent driving.

He is scheduled to be arraigned in Merrimack District Court on Sept. 15.

Under state law, if convicted, Connors could face up to one year in jail and up to $3,500 in fines.