Swisher County, TX — A 49-year-old man was arrested after a dangerous high-speed chase on I-27 that reached over 120 mph, authorities reported. The chase began in Hale County and ended south of Happy, Texas, raising concerns about public safety.
Details of the Chase
The Swisher County Sheriff’s Office confirmed that the pursuit involved Joseph Paul Castle, 49, who was driving north in the southbound lanes, creating a serious hazard for other motorists. Speeds reportedly exceeded 120 miles per hour, and officers described the situation as extremely dangerous due to the high velocity and wrong-way driving.
Castle was eventually apprehended without further incident just south of Happy, according to the reports.
Charges Filed
Castle is being held in the Swisher County Jail and faces multiple charges, including:
- Aggravated assault – Hale County
- Evading arrest with a vehicle – Hale County
- Evading arrest with a vehicle – Swisher County
- Deadly conduct – Swisher County
- Reckless driving – Swisher County
Law enforcement officials stressed the seriousness of high-speed chases and the risk they pose to the public, noting that officers followed established pursuit protocols to minimize harm.
What to Do if You Witness a Police Chase
Authorities urge drivers and bystanders to prioritize safety if they witness a police chase:
- Stay calm and do not try to follow or interfere with the suspect.
- Pull over safely to the side of the road if you are in the path of the chase.
- Keep a safe distance from the pursuing officers and the suspect’s vehicle.
- Do not attempt to record or engage with the chase, as this can create distractions and increase danger.
- Call 911 only if you can safely provide useful information about the chase, such as the vehicle description or location.
Following these precautions can prevent accidents and injuries during high-speed pursuits, officials say.
Public Safety Reminder
High-speed police chases are extremely dangerous for both the public and officers. Authorities encourage drivers to always follow traffic laws, obey speed limits, and report reckless driving when observed.
Have you ever witnessed a police chase? How did you handle the situation? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below.
