MACOMB COUNTY, Mich. — A dramatic police chase that began with a home invasion and carjacking in Harrison Township turned into a county-wide pursuit that saw the suspect drive through a golf course and the wrong way on I-94, authorities said.
The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office identified the suspect as Thomas Edward Tackett, 52, of Fort Gratiot, who now faces 13 criminal charges.
Chase Began With Home Invasion Call
The incident started around 12:32 p.m. on October 6, when a homeowner on Jefferson Avenue in Harrison Township called deputies about a man drinking from their hose.
Deputies encountered Tackett, who claimed to be homeless and heading back to Port Huron. Roughly ten minutes later, another homeowner reported a break-in and the theft of a handgun. Deputies quickly linked Tackett to the burglary.
Police Pursuit Turns Dangerous
At 12:53 p.m., deputies found Tackett on Metropolitan Parkway, but he fled after refusing to be searched. Schools were placed on lockdown as officers believed he was armed and dangerous.
Minutes later, Tackett carjacked a vehicle on Coleridge Avenue, sparking a high-speed chase. He drove through grassy areas, a bike path, and later onto the St. Clair Shores Golf Course, with deputies pursuing him across fairways, according to dashcam video.
Authorities said speeds reached over 100 mph as Tackett continued north on Gratiot Avenue and later drove the wrong way on I-94, forcing deputies to call off the chase due to safety concerns.
Confrontations With Homeowners
At 1:32 p.m., Tackett abandoned the stolen car near I-94 and Crocker Boulevard and tried to break into several homes on Reimold Street.
In one incident, he threatened a homeowner with a fork during a struggle for car keys. In another, a homeowner threatened to shoot him, forcing Tackett to flee. According to the reports, deputies later tackled and arrested him without further incident.
Criminal History and Charges
Officials revealed that Tackett was out on parole at the time of his arrest and had a long criminal history dating back to 1995, including prior home invasion and fleeing and eluding charges.
The Macomb County Prosecutor’s Office issued a 13-count warrant against Tackett, including:
- Multiple counts of home invasion
- Fleeing and eluding police
- Resisting arrest
- Reckless driving
“Tackett’s alleged actions show an alarming disregard for public safety,” said Macomb County Prosecutor Peter J. Lucido. “We will pursue these charges to the fullest extent of the law.”
Tackett was arraigned on October 9 in Clinton Township District Court and denied bond.
Sheriff’s Office Commends Deputies
The Macomb County Sheriff’s Office released multiple videos showing the chase, commending deputies for their persistence and restraint during a highly volatile situation that spanned several jurisdictions.
Dangers of Drug Abuse
Authorities said Tackett appeared to be under the influence during the incident, once again drawing attention to the growing problem of drug abuse in communities.
Drug abuse can lead to:
- Impaired judgment and reckless behavior
- Increased aggression or paranoia
- Legal trouble and imprisonment
- Permanent health damage or death
Community officials are urging residents to seek help early for substance issues to prevent tragedies like this one.
Community Call to Action
Authorities are urging anyone who witnessed any part of the pursuit or has home surveillance footage from the Harrison Township, St. Clair Shores, or Mt. Clemens areas to contact the Macomb County Sheriff’s Office.
What are your thoughts on how this chase was handled? Do you think drugs played a role? Share your opinions in the comments below.
