Knoxville, TN — A passenger was killed following a police chase in East Knoxville on Friday, November 14, according to the Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP). The chase began around 11 p.m. when a THP trooper attempted to stop a vehicle being driven by DeJaun Futrell at North Chestnut Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Avenue.
High-Speed Pursuit Endangers Others
Documents obtained by WVLT News indicate that Futrell cut off another vehicle, nearly causing a collision, before fleeing from the trooper. During the pursuit, the report states that Futrell blew through stoplights and endangered other drivers.
The trooper eventually discontinued the chase after losing visual contact with the vehicle. The car was later discovered after Futrell lost control and struck a tree.
Passenger Dies, Suspect Injured
Emergency responders, including the Knoxville Fire Department and American Medical Response, arrived to find that Futrell and his passenger were unresponsive. Futrell later regained consciousness, but the passenger was transported to the University of Tennessee Medical Center, where they were pronounced dead.
Evidence Found in Vehicle
Authorities reported that drugs and an open bottle of wine were found inside the car. The discovery suggests that impairment may have been a factor in the crash, as per the reports.
Charges Filed Against Futrell
DeJaun Futrell now faces multiple charges, including:
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Vehicular homicide
- Evading arrest
- Several additional traffic and criminal offenses
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities continue reviewing evidence from the incident.
Community Reaction
The deadly crash has raised concerns about high-speed chases and impaired driving in Knoxville. Residents are urged to exercise caution on the roads, particularly during late-night hours.
Join the Discussion
Do you think high-speed police chases should be limited to reduce civilian risk?
What measures can communities take to prevent DUI-related tragedies?
Share your thoughts in the comments below.
