A man was arrested after deputies say he fled from a traffic stop and was later found in a wooded area following a pursuit on Old Highway 27.

According to a report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office, Deputy Justin Claxton observed a side-by-side utility vehicle traveling southbound on Old Highway 27 at a high rate of speed on February 28, 2026. The deputy activated emergency lights and attempted to initiate a traffic stop.

Authorities say the driver accelerated, beginning a vehicle pursuit that reached speeds of 80 to 100 miles per hour. During the chase, the vehicle reportedly drove onto the shoulder and into the middle of the roadway before turning into a private driveway and continuing into a wooded area.

Deputies say the driver, later identified as Brandon Zane Tibbs, exited the vehicle and walked out of the wooded area shortly afterward. The deputy reported recognizing Tibbs as the driver of the side-by-side based on the clothing he was wearing.

According to the report, deputies detected a strong odor of alcohol coming from Tibbs and observed bloodshot eyes and slurred speech. Tibbs was placed in handcuffs and read his Miranda rights. Officers say he verbally agreed to submit to a blood test but later indicated he did not understand the request and refused to cooperate.

Deputies also reported locating two open containers of alcohol inside the vehicle, along with the driver’s cellphone.

Tibbs was transported to the Chattooga County Jail, where he was turned over to jail staff without further incident. Authorities say the incident was recorded on the deputy’s body-worn camera.

Tibbs faces several charges including DUI – multiple substances (less safe driver), fleeing or attempting to elude a police officer, failure to maintain lane, reckless driving, operating a motor vehicle without registration, no helmet, and open container violations, along with additional traffic offenses.

All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.