SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after a late night traffic stop and chase.
Just after 11 p.m. Tuesday, a deputy observed a red 1994 Mercury Cougar with a Kansas temporary license plate that did not belong to that vehicle near NE Meriden Road and NE Grantville Road, according to Sheriff Brian Hill.
The deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver failed to stop and initiated a pursuit heading south through North Topeka.
The vehicle stopped in the 2200 block of NE Grantville Road when two tires were deflated crossing the railroad tracks. The driver and passenger fled from the vehicle on foot.
Multiple law enforcement officers from the Shawnee County Sheriff’s Office, Topeka Police Department and Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) searched the area. With the assistance of the KHP aircraft, the driver and passenger were located.
The driver identified as 22-year-old Zachary A. Ford of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for three warrants for his arrest including two misdemeanor warrants and one felony warrant including requested charges of felony flee or attempt to elude, interference with law enforcement, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and displaying a license plate not assigned to that vehicle.
The passenger 29-year-old Michael R. P. Wilkins of Topeka, was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections for a felony warrant and requested charges of felony interference with law enforcement and possession of drug paraphernalia.