New London – A handcuffed 28-year-old city man busted his way out of a police cruiser while police were preoccupied with a fight on Sunday and led officers on a short foot chase before he was captured, police said.

The incident occurred at 2:05 a.m., police said, after officers responded to reports of a disturbance outside the Oasis Pub on Bank Street. Robert Guess, 28, of 669 Meridian St. Ext. was charged in connection with the disturbance and was placed in the back seat of the cruiser when police said another fight broke out right in front of the officers, at Bank and State streets.

In a statement, New London Deputy Chief Peter Reichard said while officers were quelling the fight, they turned to find Guess had smashed out the rear window and ran — still handcuffed.

Police gave chase on foot and caught up with Guess in the area of Eugene O’Neill Drive and Golden Street.

Guess is charged with second-degree criminal mischief, escape from custody, breach of peace and interfering with police.

Police said the police cruiser was taken out of service for repairs.