News Summary
A high-speed motorcycle chase in Chattanooga ended with the arrest of Christopher McMahan, 40, on multiple drug charges. The police pursuit began when a deputy noticed the motorcycle’s bent license plate, leading to a brief escape attempt by McMahan. Following a crash, he was apprehended with methamphetamine and other substances in his possession. He faces serious charges, with more possible as the investigation unfolds.
Chattanooga Motorcycle Chase Leads to Arrest on Drug Charges
A high-speed motorcycle chase in Chattanooga on Tuesday afternoon resulted in the arrest of a 40-year-old man on multiple drug-related charges. The pursuit commenced around 12:20 p.m. on Cummings Highway after a patrol deputy noticed the motorcycle had a bent license plate.
The operator of the motorcycle, identified as Christopher McMahan, failed to stop when requested by law enforcement, sparking a chase that involved cutting through several parking lots in a bid to escape. The pursuit concluded when McMahan lost control of the motorcycle after riding through a wet area, eventually laying the vehicle down on the roadway.
Following the fall, McMahan attempted to flee on foot but was swiftly apprehended by responding deputies. During the arrest, authorities discovered a backpack containing a white powdery substance believed to be methamphetamine, along with psilocybin mushrooms and a syringe.
McMahan now faces several charges, including:
- Improper display of registration
- Unlawful removal of registration
- Felony and misdemeanor evading
- Possession of methamphetamine
Additional charges may also be forthcoming as the investigation progresses. Following his arrest, McMahan was taken to a local hospital for evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries sustained during the chase. After undergoing medical treatment, he will be booked at the Hamilton County Jail & Detention Center.
Separate Multi-County Car Chase
In a separate incident, a multi-county car chase that began in Rhea County and ended in Hamilton County on Thursday involved multiple law enforcement deputies. The pursuit was triggered by a black Dodge Durango driven by Cornell D. Wilson. During the chase, Wilson struck multiple vehicles and ultimately collided with a FedEx truck, causing his vehicle to come to a stop against the median barrier.
Upon stopping, Wilson fled on foot, but upon apprehension, he assaulted a Hamilton County deputy by striking them in the head with a closed fist. He now faces a series of serious charges from both the Rhea County Sheriff’s Office and the Tennessee Highway Patrol, including:
- Aggravated vehicular assault
- Aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer
- Resisting arrest
An investigation into Wilson’s actions is ongoing as authorities work to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incidents.
Law Enforcement Warnings
In light of these recent events, Hamilton County Sheriff Austin Garrett issued a warning against the dangers of fleeing law enforcement and the consequences of assaulting deputies. Law enforcement encourages individuals to comply with police orders to avoid the risk of injury to themselves or others.
As both cases unfold, the Chattanooga community remains vigilant about road safety and the repercussions of high-speed chases and illegal activities. Law enforcement agencies continue to monitor the situation and urge citizens to report any suspicious behavior to maintain public safety.
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Additional Resources
- Times Free Press: Multi-County Chase Ends with Crash in Hamilton
- Local 3 News: Chattanooga Police Fatally Shoot Driver After Chase
- NewsChannel 9: Motorcycle Pursuit Ends in Arrest and Drug Charges
- Local 3 News: Suspect Dead After High-Speed Pursuit in Hamilton Place
- Wikipedia: General Information
- Encyclopedia Britannica: General Information
- Google Search: Chattanooga Police Chase
- Google News: Chattanooga Motorcycle Chase
