I-75 police pursuit reaches triple-digit speeds

Suspect taken into custody after about a 15-minute chase; facing 11 charges

JELLICO, TN (WLAF)- A Tennessee Highway Patrol Trooper began pursuing a speeding SUV just south of Jellico on Sunday morning, according to reports coming in to WLAF.

A white Dodge Durango was pursued by the THP starting at Mile Marker 148 southbound at 10:42 on Sunday morning. That’s 12 miles south of Jellico.

Estimated speeds of the Durango ranged from 112 miles per hour to 140 MPH, based on information provided to WLAF. The Dodge passed the former A & S Steel building at 10:50am at an estimated speed of 115 MPH, according to one officer.

A Campbell County Deputy joined the pursuit. The deputy stated that the Dodge Durango blew a tire near the old weigh station/rest area close to Mile Marker 130 in south Campbell County.

A male suspect, identified as 47-year old Ronald Ward, was taken into custody by the THP just before 11am, according to reports.

From all indications, Ward’s right turn signal was active during the entire pursuit.

Ward had two forms of identification, one indicating he is from Lima, Ohio, the other from Douglasville, Georgia, according to jail records at the Campbell County Jail.

Charges levied against Ward include felony evading, possession with intent, turn signal, suspended drivers license, resisting arrest, reckless driving, speeding, passing on right, no insurance, due care and lane law. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 09/09/2024-6AM)