Three police chases in 24 hours kept Mishawaka PD busy
MISHAWAKA, Ind. -- Mishawaka police told ABC57 that it is an uncommon case that officers are involved in high-speed chases.
However, Aug. 17 was different, with police responding to three separate high-speed vehicle chases in a span of 24 hours.
“It’s not usual our pursuits... I don’t want to say are few and far between because they do happen but to have three within a span of 24 hours is highly unusual,” said Sgt. Steve Headley of the Mishawaka Police Department.
The three separate incidents all happened at different times with a similar storyline, the driver sped off from a police officer, leading into a pursuit.
“We will, as long as it’s prudent and safe enough for a for us to do so, continue with the chase,” Sgt. Steve Headley, Mishawaka Police Department.
Two of those chases resulted in two arrests while the other chase resulted in one person hospitalized after crashing their car into a tree.
One of these chase incidents ended right inside prosper apartments near the blarney stone liquor store. One resident shared photos of the squad cars and said she couldn't really see what was going on. Another Prosper apartments resident expressed concern.
“I don’t know what, just makes me feel like uneasy that these things are happening so close to you know where I’m staying, and it makes me reconsider. You know this area. I’m staying in a little bit.” Devon Leckrone, prosper apartments resident stated.
Police consider many factors when it comes to whether to pursue or not and sometimes that means ending the chase for safety reasons. For example, schools being let out, heavy traffic, or level of offense to name a few.
MPD says it is hoping to prevent chases altogether.
“Don’t run from the police. Unfortunate things happen when somebody chooses to make that reckless decision,” Sgt. Steve Headley, Mishawaka Police Department finished.
All three cases are considered open investigations and as for the driver who crashed into a tree, St. Joesph County is leading that investigation.