On 7/27/2021 at approximately 0100hrs Deputies from the Bates County Sheriff's Office conducted a traffic stop on E Highway east of I49 north of Adrian. Deputies made contact with the occupants, recognizing the driver from past law enforcement encounters. The driver, who is currently on Probation and Parole, was recently released from prison for a previous police pursuit.Deputies asked for consent to search the vehicle and the driver denied the consent. Deputies asked the driver to step out of the vehicle so that a K9 could conduct a vehicle search and the driver stated, "I can't do that" and then sped off.
Deputies pursued the vehicle eastbound several miles until the vehicle turned north on a gravel road. The vehicle then took the next intersection back westbound on another gravel road. Shortly after the driver lost control of the vehicle striking a ditch causing the vehicle to roll multiple times. The passenger was wearing a seatbelt and remained in the vehicle. The driver was ejected from the vehicle and was found in the roadway upon the deputies arrival.
The driver was conscious and talking upon arrival. Bates County EMS, Adrian Fire and Adrian PD was dispatched to assist with medical care. The female passenger had minor injuries but refused medical treatment at the scene.
The driver has more serious injuries and was airlifted to a trauma center in Kansas City. Multiple items of drug paraphernalia was found within the vehicle. A container with a crystal substance was also located in the vehicle. That substance will be sent to the lab for identification. Charges will be submitted to the Bates County Prosecutor's Office.
