Detroit, Michigan – A 19-year-old Detroit resident, Kaleb Neal, is facing multiple criminal charges after a high-speed chase in a stolen Dodge Challenger ended with a serious crash early Friday morning.
Police released dashcam footage on Monday showing Neal fleeing from law enforcement at speeds exceeding 100 miles per hour, ultimately colliding with another vehicle and causing injuries to an innocent bystander.
The chase began at approximately 3 a.m. Friday, when the Dodge Challenger was reported stolen from Henry Ford Hospital Southfield. Southfield police initiated pursuit but later terminated the chase as Neal entered Detroit due to the extreme danger posed by the vehicle’s speed.
Crash Injures Bystander
Around 3:30 a.m., Neal’s vehicle collided with a Toyota Corolla at the intersection of Lahser and Grand River. The crash sent the Corolla into a nearby building.
The 25-year-old male driver of the Corolla sustained bone fractures and lacerations and is currently hospitalized in critical but stable condition. Neal briefly attempted to flee on foot, but officers apprehended him shortly thereafter.
Stolen Firearm and Car Theft Device Recovered
Police discovered a stolen Glock pistol with an extended magazine near the crash site, along with a ProPad device, which is commonly used to clone vehicle key fobs. Southfield Police Chief Elvin Barren confirmed the gun had been reported stolen from Detroit about a month ago and was ejected during the crash.
Dashcam Footage Shows Officer Compliance
Dashcam video captured the Dodge Challenger fleeing multiple cruisers, with officers attempting to box in the suspect vehicle. At one point, the lead pursuing officer deactivated lights and sirens as the chase crossed into Detroit, following departmental pursuit protocols.
Chief Barren emphasized that the blame for the crash rests entirely on Neal, not the officers who adhered to policy.
“We are committed to pursuing vehicles responsibly,” Barren said. “We follow policies and procedures, but if someone commits crimes in our city, we will ensure they are brought into custody. Without enforcement, society would face total anarchy.”
Neal Faces Multiple Charges
In Wayne County, Neal has been charged with five counts, including:
- Fleeing and eluding police (second degree)
- Reckless driving causing serious impairment of a body function
His bond has been set at $50,000 cash. Neal has no prior criminal history, but multiple police agencies have indicated he is a person of interest in other crimes across surrounding cities.
Neal is scheduled to appear in Oakland County Court on Tuesday morning, where authorities expect to add six more charges related to the incident.
Police Explain Pursuit Procedures
Chief Barren acknowledged public concern over high-speed chases in populated areas, but stressed that police will continue to balance public safety with the need to apprehend dangerous suspects. He said officers use pit maneuvers, vehicle boxing, and pursuit termination strategies to mitigate risk whenever possible.
“While no pursuit is perfect, these efforts are necessary to maintain law and order,” Barren said.
Community Response
The release of the dashcam video has generated discussion among Detroit residents regarding the risks of police pursuits in urban areas. Authorities continue to investigate Neal’s involvement in other crimes, and additional charges may be forthcoming.
What are your thoughts on high-speed police chases? Should law enforcement limit pursuits in city areas, or are they essential for public safety? Share your opinion in the comments below!
