Las Vegas, NV – Las Vegas Metro Police have released dramatic video footage showing a dangerous high-speed chase that tore through residential streets and major highways, reaching speeds of more than 130 miles per hour and ending with multiple crashes and an arrest.
Authorities say the incident highlights the growing dangers of reckless driving and the department’s ongoing efforts to protect the community.
Video Shows Extreme Speeds and Repeated Crashes
According to Las Vegas Metropolitan Police, the chase unfolded on Tuesday, December 16, after an officer observed a vehicle traveling at an alarming speed through a populated area in the southeast Las Vegas Valley.
Police identified the suspect as Jeremiah Cook, 27, who now faces multiple criminal charges related to the pursuit. Authorities also confirmed that Cook is wanted on outstanding warrants out of California, further complicating his legal situation.
The newly released video shows Cook allegedly driving at nearly 100 mph on residential streets near Interstate 11 and Harmon Avenue, an area typically congested with local traffic.
Air Unit Takes Over as Chase Intensifies
Due to the extreme danger posed to the public, Metro officers relied on their air support unit to track the suspect from above rather than continuing a close ground pursuit.
Police say the helicopter followed Cook as he crossed into Henderson, where he crashed into another vehicle. Instead of stopping, Cook allegedly fled the scene and continued driving.
Moments later, the suspect merged onto Interstate 15, where police say his speed increased to approximately 130 mph, placing countless drivers at risk during the evening commute.
Second Crash Near Sunset Road
The chase came to another violent turn near Sunset Road, where Cook allegedly crashed into a second vehicle. Authorities say the impact left the suspect’s vehicle severely damaged.
Despite the wreckage, police report that Cook exited the vehicle and attempted to escape on foot, showing signs of injury as he moved away from the crash scene.
Suspect Attempts to Hijack Civilian Vehicle
In a tense moment captured by police, Cook reportedly attempted to avoid capture by entering another citizen’s vehicle in an effort to flee once again.
“The suspect driver hobbled from the wreckage and attempted to escape by getting into another citizen’s vehicle,” Metro police stated.
Responding officers quickly located and stopped that vehicle near Spring Mountain Road and Interstate 15. Police were able to take Cook into custody without further incident.
He was then transported for medical treatment due to injuries sustained during the crashes.
Charges Filed and Extradition Pending
Court records indicate that Jeremiah Cook faces charges connected to the high-speed chase, in addition to legal trouble stemming from the multiple crashes. Police also confirmed that Cook remains in custody at the Clark County Detention Center.
As of Thursday, Cook was still being held while authorities worked on extradition proceedings to California, where he is wanted on outstanding warrants.
Investigators have not released details about the condition of the other drivers involved in the crashes, though police confirmed multiple vehicles were damaged during the pursuit.
Police Emphasize Public Safety Concerns
Metro police used the release of the video to underscore the dangers reckless drivers pose to innocent people on the road.
“This incident highlights our efforts to stop and apprehend reckless drivers who are hurting our community members,” police said in a statement.
Officials emphasized that using air support helps reduce the risk to the public while still allowing officers to track and arrest dangerous suspects.
Community Reaction and Ongoing Concerns
The video has already sparked strong reactions from residents across Las Vegas, with many expressing concern about extreme speeding on both neighborhood streets and highways.
Law enforcement leaders continue to urge drivers to slow down and obey traffic laws, warning that high-speed pursuits often end in serious injury—or worse.
As the case moves forward, prosecutors are expected to review additional charges related to fleeing the scene of crashes and endangering the public.
Should penalties be harsher for drivers involved in high-speed chases, especially when multiple crashes are involved? Share your opinion in the comments and join the conversation.
