VIRGINIA — A high-speed pursuit in Wythe County involving a stolen Dodge Charger Hellcat ended in a crash and two arrests in Bland County early Monday, Aug. 25, according to the Wythe County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies said a white Dodge Charger Hellcat was spotted traveling north on I-81 near mile marker 77 without headlights. When a deputy attempted a traffic stop, the driver sped off, leading officers on a 13-mile chase that included the Big Walker Mountain Tunnel at excessive speeds.
The pursuit ended in Bland County when the car struck a guardrail. Two men inside the vehicle ran but were quickly caught with the assistance of Virginia State Police troopers.
Investigators identified the driver as Jiaair James Henry of Ohio. Authorities said Henry is wanted in Texas on an assault charge. He now faces numerous charges including felony eluding police, reckless driving, possession of a stolen vehicle, drug possession, and several traffic violations.
The passenger was identified as Jaylon De’Shawn Gear of Charlotte, N.C. He was charged with misdemeanor eluding police, possession of a stolen vehicle, and drug possession.
Police said the Dodge Charger Hellcat had been reported stolen in Charlotte, N.C. A bag containing suspected oxycodone pills was also recovered during the investigation.
