Man arrested after high-speed chase on Highway 211

COLUMBUS COUNTY, NC (WECT) – A man was arrested on September 28 after allegedly leading a Columbus County Sheriff’s deputy on a chase along Highway 211.

Driver Willie Graham was reportedly stopped in his truck for distracted driving and not wearing a seat belt. According to the Columbus County Sheriff’s Office, Graham failed to provide identification or registration, and the deputy smelled marijuana and noticed a suspicious bag in the vehicle.

Graham then reportedly backed into the patrol vehicle and fled at high speed, driving erratically at speeds of over 80 miles per hour and attempting to ram a pursuing patrol vehicle. Another deputy used stop sticks and flattened one of the truck’s tires, although Graham continued to drive on the rim at a high rate of speed, pushing several vehicles off the road.

The second deputy forced the vehicle to stop, causing the truck to leave the road and enter a ditch. Graham was ejected but remained responsive and was then taken to hospital for treatment.

Graham faces multiple charges, including fleeing arrest and drug possession.

The incident is still under investigation.

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