Crime & Public Safety
High-speed chase through Hickory Hill ends in SUV fire near Memphis airport
A high-speed pursuit in the Hickory Hill area of Memphis ended when the driver’s Mercedes SUV overheated and caught fire near the airport. State troopers say the incident began on Shelby Drive around 11 a.m. Thursday after a trooper observed the vehicle traveling 70 mph in a 45 mph zone.
According to the troopers, the driver accelerated when the trooper activated lights and siren and turned into a residential area on Sandy Park Drive. Troopers allege the vehicle drove through yards to return to Shelby Drive, then entered a business property at Shelby Drive and Crump after a gate was opened. The driver allegedly continued on Shelby Drive and, when blocked by traffic, moved to the shoulder and rejoined the roadway.
Troopers report the pursuit resumed at about 120 mph with the vehicle driven into oncoming traffic before the Mercedes became mechanically disabled and caught fire. Firefighters extinguished the blaze at Winchester Road and Cargo Road near the airport, where troopers say the chase concluded and the driver was taken into custody.
The 65-year-old man is charged with multiple offenses including speeding, evading arrest, reckless driving, reckless endangerment, resisting arrest, and driving without a license, registration or insurance. Troopers reported the suspect was jailed with a $100,000 bond and had a court appearance scheduled the following Monday. Allegations are attributed to the investigating troopers; the report documents the vehicle fire, the charges, and the custody and bond status.
All individuals accused of a crime are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
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All individuals mentioned in criminal allegations are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.