High-Speed Chase Reaching 115 MPH Ends with Arrest After Spike Strips Deployed in Glynn County
GLYNN COUNTY, Ga. – A high-speed pursuit that reached speeds of more than 100 mph ended safely after a Glynn County police officer deployed spike strips to stop a fleeing SUV, leading to the driver’s arrest.
According to the Glynn County Police Department, the pursuit began during the early morning hours of Thursday, August 6th, when the Camden County Sheriff’s Office pursued a gray SUV traveling north on Georgia Highway 17.
At approximately 1:52 a.m., Glynn County Dispatch was notified that the pursuit was entering Glynn County. Deputies estimated the fleeing vehicle was traveling at speeds of up to 115 mph.
Spike Strips Bring Chase to an End
Glynn County Officer Jeffrey Belew positioned himself at the intersection of Georgia Highway 17 and Buckswamp Road and ensured the roadway was clear of traffic and pedestrians before coordinating with Camden County deputies.
As the SUV approached, Belew successfully deployed spike strips, puncturing the vehicle’s tires. The spike strips were then quickly removed, allowing pursuing deputies to continue safely.
The chase continued onto Blythe Island Highway, where the SUV left the roadway and came to rest in bushes beneath the Interstate 95 underpass.
Camden County deputies took the driver into custody without further incident.
Driver Identified
Authorities identified the driver as 68-year-old Maxine Winsome Hetfield of Milton, Florida, who was also the registered owner of the SUV.
Hartfield was taken into custody by the Camden County Sheriff’s Office, which assumed responsibility for both the suspect and the vehicle.
Hetfield was charged with:
- Improper Lane Change/Failure to Maintain Lane
- Driving Wrong Side of Road
- Failure to Obey Traffic Control Device
- Speeding
- Reckless Driving
- Fleeing/Attempting to Elude Police
Her bond was set at $9,150 and she remains in-custody.
No Injuries Reported
Officials said no law enforcement officers or members of the public were injured during the pursuit.
The Glynn County Police Department noted that, when practical, spike strips are considered a safer method for ending vehicle pursuits because they can gradually disable a fleeing vehicle while reducing the risks associated with other intervention tactics.
The department also credited the successful outcome to the coordinated efforts of the Glynn County Police Department and the Camden County Sheriff’s Office.
