A high-speed pursuit that began on Highway 27 in Chattooga County Saturday evening was terminated by a pursuing deputy due to safety concerns for other motorists, according to Sheriff Mark Schrader. Despite the chase being called off, authorities have successfully identified both the vehicle and the suspect involved and are in the process of issuing warrants for their arrest.

The incident unfolded Saturday evening when a Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office deputy initiated a pursuit of a vehicle on Highway 27. The chase quickly accelerated, leading law enforcement over Taylor’s Ridge,  in the direction of Floyd County.

Sheriff Mark Schrader confirmed that the deputy involved made the decision to disengage from the pursuit, prioritizing the well-being of the public. “The deputy made the decision to stop the chase for the safety of other motorists,” Sheriff Schrader stated.

Law enforcement agencies often operate under strict pursuit policies, which dictate that officers must weigh the risk of continuing a pursuit against the danger posed by the fleeing suspect. In this instance, the deputy determined that the immediate danger to other drivers outweighed the need for immediate apprehension.

While the high-speed chase was halted, the investigation did not end. Sheriff Schrader confirmed that his office has since identified both the suspect’s vehicle and the individual who was behind the wheel during the pursuit.  Sheriff Schrader says his office would be taking out warrants on the suspect. These charges are expected to include, but may not be limited to, fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, along with any additional traffic violations committed during the chase.