Attempted traffic stop turns into high-speed chase

MT. PLEASANT — A high-speed chase followed the Mt. Pleasant Police Department attempting to conduct a traffic stop for a speed violation on a Red Nissan Pathfinder on Winfield Avenue, Thursday, Oct. 24 at 12:53 a.m.

The vehicle briefly stopped then fled at a high rate of speed reaching 85-110 miles per hour going east on 220th Street, failing to stop with visual lights and audible sirens. The vehicle went into a ditch then turned South onto Marsh Avenue.

The vehicle continued to flee then exited the roadway into a cornfield at high rates of speed. It then hit an embankment causing the vehicle to go airborne and land in the field wrecking the vehicle. The driver, who was identified as 18-year-old Demetrius Hendricksen, of Blairstown was taken into custody.

Henry County Emergency Medical Services were requested to the scene where Hendricksen was transported by ambulance. Due to Hendricksen’s medical circumstances, he was released pending charges being filed.

Further investigation revealed that the vehicle driven by Hendricksen was stolen. An investigation is ongoing in regard to the vehicle.

Hendricksen is being charged with several traffic violation citations such as eluding 25 miles per hour over speed limit (D Felony) and potentially more charges to come.

The Henry County Sheriff’s Office investigated the accident scene. The Mt. Pleasant Police Department was assisted by the Henry County Sheriff’s Office, Breuer’s Towing Service, and Henry County Health Center Emergency Medical Services.

A criminal charge is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Anyone who sees suspicious activity is encouraged to contact the Mt. Pleasant Police Department at 319 385-1450.