Teen Arrested After Striking Patrol Cars While Fleeing Illegal Street Racing Event

A Stone Mountain man has been arrested after colliding with two patrol cars while attempting to flee from an illegal street racing event.

The incident occurred on March 23 around 10:00 pm in the vicinity of Cruse Road and Oakland Road. Law enforcement responded to reports of unlawful street racing, accompanied by the sound of gunshots and individuals scattering from the area, some wearing masks.

As officers arrived, they were directed to a gas station on Old Norcross Road, where individuals allegedly involved in the street racing event were seen carrying rifles and handguns. Upon arrival, a black Dodge Charger, driven by John Anthony Pritchett, struck one of the patrol cars with an officer inside before speeding away with three other occupants.

The pursuit continued until the Charger lost control near a local church on Scenic Highway in Snellville, after colliding with a K9 officer’s patrol car. Following a brief foot chase, two male occupants were apprehended, while two female occupants remained at the scene.

Investigations revealed that the Charger had been reported stolen from DeKalb County and two firearms, including a rifle, were found inside. The females, aged 16 and 20, stated they had entered the vehicle during the chaos but demanded to be released by Pritchett, who refused. None of the occupants were acquainted prior to entering the vehicle.

John Anthony Pritchett, 19, from Stone Mountain, faces multiple charges including aggravated assault against a law enforcement officer, obstruction, theft by receiving stolen property, fleeing or attempting to elude, possession of a firearm during certain felonies, kidnapping, false imprisonment, and possession of a tool during certain crimes. Additionally, he was charged with various traffic violations. He was booked into the Gwinnett County Jail shortly after 1:00 am.

Dryan Dradarius Vereen, 18, from Decatur, was charged with obstruction and booked into the Gwinnett County Jail around midnight on March 24.

Fortunately, no officers were injured during the incident.