A dramatic high-speed pursuit in Crittenden County, Arkansas, concluded with a crash in a field, resulting in the driver being airlifted to a hospital. The incident unfolded shortly after midnight on April 18, when Arkansas State Police Trooper Michael Steele clocked a vehicle traveling at 84 mph in a 55 mph zone on Highway 79.

Pursuit Details

The vehicle, a two-door pickup truck, failed to slow down and continued at high speed, prompting Trooper Steele to initiate a pursuit. The chase saw the truck swerving over the center line, running a stop sign, and eventually transitioning from pavement to gravel, creating visibility challenges for the trooper.

As the pursuit progressed, the truck left the road and crashed into a field. Trooper Steele found the driver, identified as 21-year-old Dylan B. Brannon of Crawfordsville, lying 30 feet from the vehicle, apparently ejected due to not wearing a seat belt. Brannon was bleeding and attempting to breathe, leading Steele to place him in the recovery position and handcuff him to prevent further movement.

Aftermath and Investigation

EMS arrived and transported Brannon to a location where he was airlifted to Regional One Hospital. The report noted the smell of intoxicants, and blood was drawn for evidence after warrants were obtained. Charges expected against Brannon include felony fleeing, reckless driving, and driving while intoxicated, among others. As of the report’s publication, no court filings had been made.

This incident highlights the risks involved in high-speed pursuits and the importance of adhering to traffic laws for the safety of all road users.

Original reporting: NEA Report (Jonesboro) — read the source article.