Dade County, Georgia – A dangerous interstate chase ended with gunfire and a major drug seizure after a Tennessee man allegedly shot at deputies during a pursuit that spanned two counties on Sunday, December 7. Authorities say the suspect was later arrested with multiple firearms, large quantities of suspected narcotics, and tens of thousands of dollars in cash.
Traffic Stop Turns Into High-Speed Pursuit
According to Dade County Sheriff Ray Cross, deputies initially attempted to stop a vehicle for an equipment violation after it exited Interstate 24 West onto Highway 299. Instead of complying, the driver made a sudden U-turn and re-entered the interstate, accelerating northbound in an attempt to flee law enforcement.
The pursuit quickly escalated as the suspect crossed the Tennessee–Georgia state line, heading toward the Haletown area at high speeds. Deputies reported reckless driving and repeated attempts by the driver to evade capture.
PIT Maneuver and Deputy Collision
During the chase, a Dade County deputy attempted a PIT maneuver in an effort to safely end the pursuit. Although the maneuver caused the suspect’s vehicle to spin, authorities say the driver regained control and continued driving in the opposite direction.
Moments later, the suspect’s vehicle struck a Dade County sergeant head-on, causing heavy damage to both vehicles. Despite the collision, the suspect continued fleeing, forcing law enforcement to shift tactics as the chase moved toward Jasper, Georgia.
Marion County Takes Over the Chase
As the pursuit entered Marion County, local deputies assumed the lead. The suspect’s vehicle ultimately crashed beneath an overpass at the intersection of State Route 28 and U.S. Highway 41, bringing the chase to a temporary stop…