Baltimore, MD – A harrowing multi-county car chase came to a dramatic end Friday after 37-year-old Cory Thomas Burkhardt of Idylewood, Maryland led law enforcement on a dangerous pursuit with three children in the vehicle, authorities reported.
The incident, which spanned Frederick, Montgomery, and Baltimore Counties, involved multiple high-risk maneuvers and the use of non-lethal force to safely secure the children and apprehend the suspect.
Chase Sparks Across Three Counties
The chaos began around 4:00 p.m. when a Frederick County Sheriff’s Office deputy observed a car driving recklessly on southbound U.S. Route 15 near Rosemont Avenue. Burkhardt’s vehicle crossed the median into oncoming traffic, immediately placing northbound motorists in danger.
As deputies attempted to stop him, Burkhardt tried repeatedly to collide with police vehicles while weaving through traffic at high speeds. Spike strips were deployed twice, but the suspect managed to evade them, continuing onto southbound I-270 while driving in the northbound lanes. The pursuit only ended when an officer near the Clarksburg exit forced Burkhardt’s car into a guardrail.
Children in Immediate Danger
Inside the car were three young children. Two of them, ages 8 and 12, were safely removed first. Burkhardt attempted to flee on foot while carrying a 2-year-old, claiming to be armed. Officers used a Taser to subdue him and ensure the child’s safety.
During the arrest, Burkhardt struggled and attempted to disarm a deputy, prompting the use of additional non-lethal force. He was transported to Frederick Health Hospital for evaluation but tried to escape on foot before being apprehended again.
Charges Filed Against Burkhardt
Despite the high-speed and high-risk chase, no serious injuries were reported among deputies, children, or civilians. Burkhardt now faces a long list of charges, including:
- Two counts of First-Degree Assault
- Four counts of Second-Degree Assault
- Disarming a Law Enforcement Officer
- Attempt by Driver to Elude a Uniformed Police Officer
- Attempt by Driver to Elude Police in an Official Police Vehicle
- Reckless Driving
- Negligent Driving Endangering Life and Property
- Failure to Drive on the Right-Hand Roadway of a Divided Highway
- Driving on the Median Strip of a Divided Highway
Police have not disclosed a motive for the pursuit, as per the reports.
Community and Police Response
Authorities praised officers for their quick response and for keeping the children safe amid a chaotic and dangerous situation. “The actions of our deputies ensured that no one was seriously hurt and prevented a potential tragedy,” said a Frederick County Sheriff’s Office spokesperson.
Residents in the affected counties expressed relief that the incident concluded without casualties. “It was terrifying to hear about a man driving that recklessly with kids in the car,” a local witness commented.
What Happens Next
Burkhardt remains in custody while law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the chase. Authorities are also reviewing whether any additional charges may be filed based on the suspect’s behavior and risk to public safety.
Were law enforcement’s actions sufficient to protect the children and community? Share your thoughts and comments below.
