Johnson County pursuit ends in suspect fatality

At approximately 8:30 p.m. on Tuesday, December 24, an Arkansas State Police (ASP) Trooper performed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention (TVI) maneuver to stop a fleeing suspect on Interstate 40 westbound near the 61-mile marker. The fleeing suspect, driving a 2006 Honda Pilot, died from injuries he sustained when the vehicle traveled into a wooded area north of the interstate, striking trees before coming to rest.
The Trooper initially stopped the suspect for driving 98 mph on Interstate 40 westbound near the 66-mile marker. During the stop, the 33-year-old suspect from Hampton, Virginia, gave the Trooper a false name and date of birth.
The suspect was wanted in Virginia for fleeing, giving false identification and being in possession of a controlled substance. A loaded handgun and drug paraphernalia were found in the suspect’s pockets. A taser and 4.9 ounces of cocaine were was located in the vehicle.

“Fleeing from law enforcement is reckless and has serious consequences,” said ASP Colonel Mike Hagar. “Although we regret any loss of life, ASP Troopers will always put the lives of innocent motorists first.”
The suspect’s body will be transported to the Arkansas State Crime Lab. The incident is under investigation by ASP’s Criminal Investigation Division.