High-speed pursuits marked by reckless driving and criminal activity unfolded across several states this Christmas season, bringing urgency to law enforcement agencies managing dangerous situations. From Arkansas to Indiana, Michigan, and Kentucky, numerous suspects attempted to evade arrest, showcasing the lengths some individuals will go to escape law enforcement.
On December 20, Arkansas State Police lit up the night with flashing lights as they pursued 24-year-old Malcolm Curry, who was driving a white Chrysler 300 at speeds reaching 130 miles per hour on I-40. According to the agency’s report, Curry initially caught attention for a traffic stop on Highway 67 around 10 p.m. But instead of pulling over, he sped away, turning off his lights and careening past other vehicles. The chase eventually took him off the interstate onto Lawson Road, where he crashed his car. After fleeing on foot, Curry was apprehended by troopers shortly after the crash.
Police discovered substantial quantities of illegal drugs and substances inside Curry's vehicle, including 14 boxes of PolkaDot psychoactive mushrooms, 47 ecstasy pills, two pounds of marijuana, and three bottles of promethazine. Following medical treatment for minor injuries sustained during the crash, he was booked on multiple charges, including possession of controlled substances and fleeing law enforcement.
Just days later, on December 23, Indiana State Police found themselves chasing another suspect back-to-back. Trooper Austin Collins attempted to pull over Kenneth Evinger, 47, near Cannelburg for speeding and having a broken taillight. Evinger, sensing trouble, bolted from the scene, reaching speeds of 100 miles per hour as he navigated through rural roads. The pursuit ended when his Chevrolet SUV went off the roadway, lost a tire, and became stuck in a ditch. Evinger fled on foot but was eventually tracked down with the help of K-9 units and drones.
Further investigations revealed additional criminal activity at Evinger’s residence, leading to the discovery of approximately nine grams of methamphetamine and over six pounds of marijuana. Authorities charged him with multiple felonies, including dealing methamphetamine, possession of controlled substances, and resisting law enforcement.
Christmas Day brought another dramatic chase, this time to Calhoun County, where deputies responded to reports of domestic disturbance involving threats made by a 33-year-old male suspect. Allegedly armed and dangerous, the suspect’s vehicle became disabled during the police pursuit after he attempted to hit police with his car. After leaving the roadway and getting stuck, he initially resisted commands but eventually surrendered without causing injuries. His actions have led to pending felony charges.
Finally, the Christmas chaos didn’t end there. Another police chase erupted on December 25 when Michael Fogelman, 27, sped away during an investigation near Morehead, Kentucky. After being spotted driving recklessly at nearly 100 mph, ignoring red lights, he also faced charges including attempted murder of first responders. Despite the serious allegations, Fogelman claimed he had been trying to reach home to see his daughter after leaving rehab.
The string of incidents across different states highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement during holiday periods, as police navigated urgent and volatile situations. These pursuits not only raise concerns about public safety but also spotlight issues surrounding drug use, domestic disturbances, and the motivations driving individuals to evade capture.
While arrests have been made and cases are pending, these events serve as pertinent reminders about the serious consequences of reckless behavior on the road and the community ramifications during festive seasons. Law enforcement agencies remain vigilant, emphasizing the need for public cooperation and awareness of the dangers posed by such reckless decisions.
Authorities urge anyone with information on criminal activities to come forward and assist law enforcement efforts aimed at upholding safety and order within their communities.
