Wanted Suspect Reaches 130 MPH, Drives on Sidewalks During Wilkinson County Pursuit

WILKINSON COUNTY, Ga. – A wanted suspect was arrested after leading Wilkinson County deputies on a high-speed pursuit that reached approximately 130 mph and forced motorists off the road, according to the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies were attempting to locate the wanted individual in the Gordon area on Sept. 2 when they found the suspect on Elam Road, just outside the Gordon city limits.

When deputies attempted to make contact, the suspect fled in a white Toyota Corolla, triggering a pursuit.

The sheriff’s office said the driver repeatedly ran stop signs and traffic signals, crossed double-yellow lines and drove onto sidewalks while attempting to get away. At one point, the Toyota nearly collided head-on with a patrol vehicle.

Speeds reached approximately 130 mph in areas with posted 55 mph limits, according to authorities.

As the pursuit continued, deputies said the suspect passed numerous vehicles at high speeds, forcing several motorists off the roadway to avoid being hit.

The driver also nearly collided with a semi-truck that had the right of way and briefly lost control of the Corolla, sending the vehicle into the yard of a residence.

Deputies eventually coordinated a rolling roadblock that slowed the Toyota and brought the pursuit to an end. The suspect’s vehicle struck the rear of a patrol vehicle as deputies got out to make the arrest.

Authorities said the suspect resisted deputies before being restrained and taken into custody. The individual was transported to the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office did not release the suspect’s name, the original warrant charges or the additional charges stemming from the pursuit.

No deputies, motorists, pedestrians or other members of the public were seriously injured.