Charlotte County, FL – A routine drive home turned chaotic for commuters on Interstate 75 Tuesday afternoon when a high-speed police chase unfolded near North Port, authorities said.
Dramatic Chase Witnessed by Motorists
Jesse Maize, a local resident, witnessed the dangerous pursuit while heading southbound. Maize reported seeing a white Kia weaving through traffic, speeding along the shoulder of the highway as multiple North Port Police vehicles gave chase.
“I saw this white car coming really fast. They were weaving in and out of traffic, passing everyone on the shoulder. It was wild,” Maize said to a local news outlet.
The Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) confirmed that the Kia may have been stolen. When troopers attempted a traffic stop, the driver continued at high speeds, forcing authorities to escalate their response.
PIT Maneuver Brings Chase to an End
The chase concluded near the Jones Loop Road weigh station, where FHP deployed a PIT maneuver to safely stop the vehicle. The tactic successfully ended the pursuit without serious injuries to surrounding motorists.
“I know we’ve got a lot of crazy drivers in Florida,” Maize said. “But this was crazy…. You could have put my life in danger, and all the other people around us just trying to get back from work.”
Suspect Taken Into Custody
The suspect was transported to the hospital for an unrelated medical issue. Troopers stated that the individual will face multiple charges once released, though specific charges have not yet been announced.
Public Safety During High-Speed Chases
High-speed police pursuits are inherently dangerous for both drivers and bystanders. FHP officials stress that motorists should always prioritize safety when a chase occurs nearby.
What to Do if You Witness a Police Chase
- Do not attempt to follow or intervene – Let law enforcement handle the situation.
- Pull over safely – Move to the side of the road and stop until the chase passes.
- Stay alert and calm – Keep your vehicle under control and remain aware of surrounding traffic.
- Report from a safe distance – If possible, note the vehicle description, direction of travel, and license plate for law enforcement.
- Avoid distractions – Do not use your phone while driving near a police pursuit.
Following these steps helps protect yourself, other drivers, and law enforcement officers during dangerous high-speed events.
Ongoing Investigation
Authorities continue to investigate the incident and will release additional details regarding the suspect’s identity, criminal charges, and any further safety advisories for Charlotte County commuters.
Have you ever witnessed a high-speed police chase? How did you stay safe? Share your experiences and tips for others in the comments below.
