New Hampshire State Police photo A state trooper takes notes during an investigation initiated following the arrest of Merrimack resident Hillary Marquardt, who police say was driving drunk while traveling the wrong way on Interstate 93 at up to 90 mph.

NORTHFIELD – Moments after police received reports of a vehicle traveling north on the southbound side of Interstate 93 early Saturday morning, Trooper Anthony Pratt spotted the car, and promptly estimated its speed at upwards of 90 mph, police said.

Behind the wheel was Hillary A. Marquardt, a 33-year-old Merrimack resident, who would end up being charged with one count each of driving under the influence – subsequent offense and reckless conduct, police said.

Marquardt was taken into custody on the side of I-93 around 3:30 a.m. following a fairly brief, but at times harrowing, pursuit, according to the police description.

Upon encountering the vehicle, Pratt was able to roll out a set of stop sticks in its path, which, police said, slowly decreased the vehicle’s speed.

That allowed Pratt to “parallel the vehicle,” meaning he drove north in the northbound lanes while keeping pace with Marquardt’s vehicle as she allegedly continued driving north in the southbound lanes.

As the vehicles approached a cross-over, according to police, Pratt succeeded in again intercepting the vehicle, and this time, “bring it to a complete stop,” police said.

Upon speaking with Marquardt, police said, Pratt determined she was “operating her vehicle while under the influence,” and placed her under arrest.

Marquardt was transported to Troop D headquarters in Concord for booking, at which time she “refused all testing,” police said, and was booked on the two charges.

They didn’t say whether Marquardt was held on bail, if she made bail or was released on personal recognizance bail.

They did say she will be arraigned at a future date in Merrimack County Superior Court.

Dean Shalhoup may be reached at 594-1256 or dshalhoup@nashuatelegraph.com.

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