Waller County, Texas – Authorities are investigating after a high-speed chase involving a stolen vehicle ended dramatically Thursday morning when the car plunged into a lake in Waller County. Deputies now believe the suspect may have escaped before or after the crash.
Chase Begins in Harris County
According to the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO), the incident began when deputies attempted to stop a stolen vehicle near Cypress and U.S. Highway 290. When the driver refused to pull over, deputies initiated a pursuit that crossed into Waller County.
The chase covered several miles as the suspect continued to evade authorities at high speed, weaving through traffic and ignoring multiple signals to stop.
Spikes Deployed, Vehicle Crashes Into Lake
The pursuit came to a sudden end when Waller County Sheriff’s deputies deployed spike strips on the roadway. The driver lost control shortly afterward, causing the stolen vehicle to veer off U.S. 290, east of James Muse Parkway, and crash into a nearby lake.
At first, deputies feared the suspect might still be trapped inside the submerged vehicle. Dive teams from both Harris and Waller County were called to the scene to search the lake. However, when the car was located and checked, the suspect was nowhere to be found.
Suspect’s Whereabouts Remain Unknown
Investigators say it’s unclear whether the suspect escaped before the car sank or managed to swim away after impact. Authorities also have not determined if anyone else was in the vehicle during the chase.
As of now, no suspect description has been released, and it remains uncertain whether the driver intentionally drove into the lake or lost control due to the spikes. Deputies continue to canvass the area for any signs of the person involved, as per reports.
Highway Exit Closed for Search Operations
The James Muse Parkway exit on U.S. 290 remains closed as dive teams and investigators continue their search efforts. Drivers in the area are being advised to avoid the route and find alternative exits until the operation concludes.
Authorities are urging anyone with information about the suspect’s identity or whereabouts to contact the Harris County Sheriff’s Office or Waller County authorities immediately.
Ongoing Investigation
Both county sheriff’s offices are collaborating to determine how the stolen vehicle ended up in Waller County and whether the suspect may have had assistance escaping the scene.
The investigation remains active, and officials say updates will be provided once more information becomes available.
What do you think happened after the crash?
Share your thoughts and theories in the comments — should police expand the search area, or do you think the suspect managed to get away unseen?
