Dodge Challenger Driver Outsmarts Trooper in High-Speed Chase
The Incident
On November 24, 2023, at around 10:55 p.m., a high-speed chase involving a Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody took place in Arkansas. Trooper Blayn Lucas from the Arkansas State Police attempted to pull over the dark green Dodge Challenger after being unable to read its license plate. However, the driver decided to flee, initiating the pursuit.
The Chase
The driver of the Dodge Challenger performed a massive burnout and nearly lost control of the vehicle. They then accelerated to approximately 140 mph (225 km/h) along Interstate 30 westbound before taking an exit. The trooper in pursuit cut through traffic to keep up with the Challenger, leading them onto suburban roads.
The Crash
After getting back onto Interstate 30 and taking Exit 40, both the driver and the trooper approached a left-hand bend. The trooper, however, entered the curve at an excessive speed, causing their vehicle to lose traction and collide with the concrete crash barrier at around 96 mph (155 km/h). The crash ended the chase.
Officer’s Statement
Trooper Blayn Lucas stated in the incident report, “As I began to take the exit, I did not decrease enough speed coming into the curve. This caused the front right corner of my vehicle to make contact with the concrete wall. My patrol unit traveled down the concrete wall and came to a stop. I advised my dispatch that I had wrecked out and that the suspect vehicle had gotten away. My supervisor arrived on scene with another trooper, and my vehicle was towed back to ASP headquarters. I was transported to UAMS to be medically evaluated for the collision.”
Aftermath
The police cruiser suffered significant damage to its passenger side, and the airbags were deployed. Fortunately, Trooper Lucas escaped with minor injuries.
Conclusion
This high-speed chase involving a Dodge Challenger R/T Scat Pack Widebody showcases the challenges faced by law enforcement officers. Despite their efforts, sometimes drivers manage to outsmart and evade capture. It serves as a reminder of the risks and difficulties faced by police officers in their line of duty.
