Suspect Apprehended After Tense Standoff Following High-Speed Pursuit in Marion County

On Thursday, November 21, 2024, at approximately 9:30 p.m., the Marion County Sheriff’s Department assisted the Dade County Sheriff’s Office in a high-speed vehicle pursuit that crossed into Tennessee.

The suspect, 49-year-old David Lee Dewitt, had fled after being stopped for a traffic violation and led authorities onto Tennessee Highway 134 before turning onto Highway 156 in Whiteside. The chase ended when Dewitt’s vehicle crashed between two trees, preventing him from exiting easily.

During the standoff, Dewitt threatened law enforcement, stating, “Nobody was leaving alive,” and fired two shots. The Marion County SWAT Team was deployed, and after 30 to 45 minutes of negotiations, Dewitt surrendered without further incident.

Dewitt was taken into custody and charged with aggravated assault on law enforcement. He is currently being held at the Marion County Jail.

No injuries were reported during the pursuit or standoff. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude for the quick and professional response of all involved law enforcement agencies and dispatchers.