MIAMI and WABASH COUNTIES,Indiana – On Monday afternoon at approximately 1:30 pm, Miami County Central Dispatch received a call of a 17-year-old suicidal male who left a residence in the Oakdale area of Peru. This male was possibly en route to Seven Pillars along SR 124 and was to possibly be in possession of a handgun.
Officer Zach Adkins and Detective Captain Matt Feller proceed to the area of Wallace Avenue and SR 124 in an attempt to locate the vehicle. At this location, Officer Adkins was able to see a vehicle matching the description given, a black 4-door Toyota, traveling westbound on SR 124. Officer Adkins attempted to catch up to the Toyota, which at this point was traveling in excess of 90 miles per hour. Once Officer Adkins caught up to the Toyota, the driver failed to yield. Officer Adkins called in a pursuit of the vehicle, as he and Captain Feller continued to follow the Toyota.
As they neared SR 124 and 300 West in Wabash County, the Indiana State Police deployed Stop Sticks in an effort to deflate the tires of the Toyota. After striking the Stop Sticks, the Toyota continued eastbound, nearly striking a police car. Stop Sticks were again set out at SR 124 and SR 13. In an attempt to swerve to the left to avoid striking the Stop Sticks, the driver lost control, striking Sheriff’s Department Deputy Randy Miller’s car, causing significant front end damage.
After Officers were able to remove the subject from the car, they found the male to be sobbing. A four-inch T-handle knife was located on the driver’s seat of the vehicle. However, no gun was located. The male, who was the sole occupant of the car, was not injured in the crash. No officers were hurt during the pursuit, as well.
After the male was transported to Dukes Memorial Hospital, he was then admitted to Cornerstone Mental Health Facility in Grant County for further treatment.
The male was charged with Resisting Law Enforcement with a Vehicle and Reckless Driving. Additional charges are pending.