Troopers performed a PIT maneuver, causing the suspect’s vehicle to spin out to end high speed chase
By: -----
Lakeland, FL - A high-speed pursuit along I-4 came to an end Tuesday after troopers performed a PIT maneuver, causing the suspect’s vehicle to spin out.
The suspect, identified as Dashawn Nelson, 32, sped into Polk County early Tuesday morning while fleeing from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, according to a report by the Florida Highway Patrol.
Troopers spotted Nelson heading eastbound on I-4, near mile marker 13. Multiple unmarked units and a helicopter were following Nelson as officials said he reached speeds of up to 107 on the interstate.
FHP said Nelson almost collided with a trooper’s patrol car while trying to get away. He then exited the interstate at mile marker 48, traveling southbound onto County Road 557.
Authorities said Nelson was trying to get back on I-4 heading westbound when a trooper performed a PIT maneuver on his vehicle.
Video provided by FHP showed Nelson’s vehicle spinning out, coming to a stop facing the trooper’s patrol car head on. Another trooper then drove behind Nelson’s vehicle and boxed him in, the footage showed.
Troopers said Nelson tried to put his car into reverse and hit one of the patrol cars. However, he was unable to get away. Nelson could be seen on video putting both of his hands up after he was unable to move his car.
A trooper shouted, “Get out of the car,” as they surrounded Nelson’s vehicle.
Nelson was taken into custody on multiple charges, including operating a motor vehicle without a valid license, fleeing and eluding at a high speed, and aggravated assault on an officer.
Troopers also found multiple Xanax pills, ecstasy tablets and 25.9 grams of marijuana in Nelson’s car, according to FHP. An investigation is being conducted to determine if Nelson was driving under the influence, officials said.