Phelps County, MO – A vehicle theft on Monday afternoon led to a dangerous high-speed chase in Phelps County, ending in a collision involving a school bus. Authorities arrested 42-year-old Daniel Shane Bratcher following the incident.
Vehicle Theft and Chase Begins
At approximately 3:27 p.m. on September 15, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper patrolling the St. James area noticed a red Jeep Liberty. The driver, identified as a white male on crutches, had reportedly stolen the Jeep earlier at 3:07 p.m. in Rolla.
The trooper activated emergency lights and began following the suspect. The Jeep briefly signaled to turn onto Florine Street, but instead drove left, striking a stop sign and initiating a pursuit reaching speeds of up to 79 mph.
Collision with GMC and School Bus
At 3:30 p.m., the trooper observed a school bus offloading students. Despite the trooper slowing down, Bratcher continued at high speed.
Court documents state the Jeep lost control, striking a black GMC Terrain. The impact caused the GMC to cross the centerline and collide with the front driver side of the school bus. The Jeep ultimately came to rest on the side of the road.
EMTs checked occupants of the GMC, with only one person sustaining minor injuries. There were no reported injuries on the school bus.
Arrest and Statements
At 3:35 p.m., law enforcement apprehended Daniel Shane Bratcher. His head struck the driver’s side windshield of the Jeep during the chase, as he was not wearing a seatbelt, causing visible damage.
Bratcher was transported to a hospital and informed of his arrest. During questioning, he admitted:
“You know why, I stole the f****** car. I know I’m under arrest.”
“Sitting in the f****** rain, all f****** day, I got sick and f****** tired of sitting like a caged f****** dog in the f****** rain.”
He also said he believed he had developed pneumonia from standing in the rain. When asked why he did not stop, Bratcher replied:
“Because I’m already going, bye.”
When questioned about remorse, he stated:
“I do. I feel bad for every party involved. I didn’t want to hurt anybody.”
Charges and Jail Status
Bratcher was transported to Phelps County Jail and charged with:
- Aggravated Fleeing a Stop of Detention – Causes Physical Injury
- First Degree Tampering with Motor Vehicle
He is being held without bond pending further proceedings.
What do you think about police chases that involve school zones? Should stricter measures be taken to prevent high-speed pursuits near children? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
