Two Juveniles Arrested After High-Speed Chase and Stolen Car Incident in Valdosta
VALDOSTA, GA – Two juveniles have been arrested following a high-speed chase that ended with multiple charges, including theft of a motor vehicle.
On October 17, 2025, around 6:50 p.m., an officer with the Valdosta Police Department’s Crime Suppression Unit spotted a vehicle speeding and running a red light in the 900 block of North Ashley Street. When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated, ignoring additional stop signs as he tried to flee.
The chase ended in the 1900 block of North Oak Street, where both occupants jumped out of the car and ran. Officers quickly located the passenger, a 13-year-old, hiding behind a nearby residence on Georgia Avenue. While being taken into custody, the juvenile reportedly kicked an officer’s arm.
During the search, a citizen called 911 to report that the vehicle involved in the chase had just been stolen from the 300 block of North St. Augustine Road.
The 13-year-old was charged with felony theft by taking a motor vehicle, felony obstruction of an officer, and two misdemeanor obstruction charges. The Department of Juvenile Justice authorized his detention at a Regional Youth Detention Center, and he was transported to the Lowndes County Jail.
The next day, officers and Lowndes County deputies arrested the suspected driver, a 15-year-old, at his home. He was charged with felony theft by taking a motor vehicle, felony fleeing and attempting to elude, reckless driving, and misdemeanor obstruction. He was also detained at a Regional Youth Detention Center.
“The actions of these juveniles were reckless and disrespectful,” said Valdosta Police Chief Leslie Manahan. “They endangered the lives of not only themselves, but also our officers and our community. Our officers maintained professionalism and ensured the situation ended safely, with the juveniles being held accountable. This should serve as a reminder that this behavior will not be tolerated and that choices have consequences.”
