An Ohio man who allegedly led law enforcement on a high-speed chase through two counties on Wednesday, March 14, has been charged with a felony in Saline County.
According to a probable-cause statement, the vehicle pursuit began on Old Highway 40 in Saline County and continued on I-70 through Saline and into Lafayette County. Speeds of the suspect’s vehicle reportedly reached up to 90 miles per hour on Old 40 near Emma. Once on I-70, the vehicle reportedly reached speeds up to 130 miles per hour as the driver weaved it in and out of traffic in both lanes and on the shoulder. After reportedly avoiding spike strips once, the vehicle struck a second deployment and eventually traveled off the interstate and down an embankment. The suspect reportedly fled the scene and later was found by authorities in a wooded area. After the vehicle stopped, it reportedly caught fire and became completely engulfed in flames.
After the fire was doused by fire fighters, authorities reportedly recovered some drug-related items in the vehicle. The vehicle reportedly was valued at $4,000 by Kelley Blue Book.
According to online court documents, a warrant has been issued, and Derek Ray Tanner, of Conesville, has been charged with a Class E Felony for Resisting Arrest, Detention or Stop by Fleeing- Creating a Substantial Risk of Serious Injury or Death to Any Person. He’s also been charged with drug- and driving-related misdemeanors. Bond has been set at $10,000 cash only, with several conditions.
Tanner’s initial appearance at Saline County Circuit Court is pending.