CHARLOTTE, N.C. — A man is in custody after running from deputies in Charlotte and crashing his car into a pole on Sunday morning, according to the Mecklenburg County Sheriff’s Office.
Deputies tried to pull over the driver during a speed check for going 90 mph on Interstate 85 near Mallard Creek and Church Road, the sheriff said.
The man, who was identified as Albert Gregory Young, appeared to comply by slowing down.
"However, he suddenly sped off, driving recklessly through traffic," the sheriff's office said.
Because the driver was being reckless, the deputy said he turned off his emergency lights and stopped chasing him for safety reasons.
Young exited at W.T. Harris Boulevard, where he crashed into another car before crashing into a pole. He then left the car and ran into the woods alongside I-85, deputies said.
“Incidents like this serve as a reminder of the critical role our deputies play in ensuring safety of our roadways,” Sheriff McFadden said.
They found Young after a quick search.
Young and his two passengers and the driver of the other car were hurt. All involved were taken to a hospital by Medic.
Young was charged with fleeing and eluding arrest, resisting a public officer and cited for speeding.
“While we are relieved that no lives were lost, the reckless behavior shown by Mr. Young could have resulted in a far more tragic outcome. Our commitment to public safety remains unchanged, and we will continue to conduct enforcement campaigns aimed at keeping our community safe,” McFadden said.