According to FHP spokesman Dylan Bryan, the situation escalated when the driver, whose name has not been disclosed, reportedly made “suicidal and homicidal threats” during the initial traffic stop. These threats prompted the involvement of additional law enforcement personnel and resources.

As the pursuit intensified, the driver managed to temporarily lose the deputies. However, state troopers soon located the suspect’s vehicle, a distinctive blue convertible BMW, heading north on I-95 in St. Johns County. The first trooper on the scene discreetly followed the vehicle, maintaining surveillance until more FHP units could arrive to assist.

This high-stakes incident underscores the complexities and potential dangers law enforcement officers face during traffic stops, especially when dealing with individuals making serious threats. The driver in question now faces a series of charges as a result of their actions.

After deputies lost track of the driver, troopers located the driver’s vehicle, a blue convertible BMW, traveling northbound on I-95 in St. Johns County. Bryan said the first responding trooper provided undercover surveillance to additional units that were responding.

Once more troopers joined in on the pursuit, Bryan said troopers attempted to stop the driver’s vehicle just north of I-95 and International Golf Parkway.

However, Bryan said the driver continued traveling northbound on the interstate, driving at a “high rate of speed.”

“During the pursuit, the driver made numerous erratic and unsafe actions towards our troopers and the motoring public,” Bryan said. “The pursuit continued until the driver lost control of his vehicle in the construction area of I-95 and Emerson Street.”

The driver was reportedly then taken into custody without further incident.

No injuries were reported in the incident, from either the driver, public and law enforcement, Bryan said. However, the driver was taken to UF Health in Jacksonville for a precautionary medical evaluation.

FHP said the driver will face several charges from FHP and other agencies.