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RICHMOND COUNTY, Ga. – A suspect is now in custody following an attempted traffic stop involving a stolen vehicle in Richmond County.
The Richmond County Sheriff’s Office reports that their Crime Suppression Team spotted a stolen 2020 Silver Ford Ranger driving along Deans Bridge Road near the I-520 interchange on Friday around 5:12 p.m.
Upon noticing a patrol car, the driver reportedly sped up, maneuvering across several lanes in an attempt to evade law enforcement. When deputies initiated a traffic stop, the vehicle raced onto I-520, reaching speeds over 90 miles per hour while driving dangerously.
The pursuit continued as the driver exited the interstate, aiming to turn onto Mike Padgett Highway. It was at the intersection of the I-520 off-ramp and Mike Padgett Highway that the vehicle abruptly halted.
Authorities say the driver, identified as Tyreke Wadley, then abandoned the stolen vehicle and attempted to escape on foot, running across multiple lanes of traffic on Mike Padgett Highway.
Deputies say they chased after Wadley but temporarily lost sight of him near Johnathan Circle; however, several Apple Valley area residents contacted 911 and provided information regarding Wadley’s movements.
According to initial reports, Wadley was hiding in a trash container before fleeing again on foot, but with the assistance of K-0 unites, deputies traced Wadley to a vehicle parked at a residence on Jonathan Circle, and after making contact with Wadley at that location, Wadley was taken into custody without further incident.
According to the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office, Wadley had an active warrant through the Burke County Sheriff’s Office for Burglary in the First Degree.
Authorities state that Wadley was additionally charged with the following offenses:
- Felony Fleeing and Eluding
- Misdemeanor Obstruction
- Theft by Receiving Stolen Property (Felony)
- Driving Under the Influence (Marijuana or Controlled Substance)
- Too Fast for Conditions
- Hit and Run / Leaving the Scene of an Accident
- No Seatbelt