ASHLAND, Ohio — What began as a routine traffic stop turned into a pursuit of nearly 50 miles for Ohio State Highway Patrol troopers in the early morning hours of Wednesday.
A trooper stopped a white 2011 GMC Envoy for speed and marked lanes violations just before midnight on Interstate 71 northbound near U.S. 250 in Ashland County.
As the trooper approached the vehicle, the driver and one of the passengers switched seats. When the trooper attempted to interact with the driver, now in the left rear passenger seat, the vehicle fled the scene and a pursuit ensued.
The pursuit continued northbound and covered approximately 48 miles as the suspect traveled at speeds of 120 mph. Troopers attempted to deploy stop-sticks several times; however, each attempt was unsuccessful.
Eventually, the vehicle lost control and spun-out on I-71 near Pearl Road in Middleburg Heights. Four occupants were taken into custody without further incident.
A loaded firearm was also recovered from the vehicle.
The original driver was identified as 22-year-old Michael Wilson of Elyria. He was charged with obstructing official business along with speeding, marked lanes and driving under suspension.
The driver who fled the scene was identified as 24-year-old Autiana Washington of Euclid. She was charged with fleeing, a felony offense; obstructing official business and reckless operation - operation in willful or wanton disregard of the safety of persons or property.
The incident remains under investigation and additional charges are pending as the Ohio State Highway Patrol awaits results of crime lab testing of the firearm.