Dade County, Georgia – A dangerous interstate chase ended with gunfire and a major drug seizure after a Tennessee man allegedly shot at deputies during a pursuit that spanned two counties on Sunday, December 7. Authorities say the suspect was later arrested with multiple firearms, large quantities of suspected narcotics, and tens of thousands of dollars in cash.
Traffic Stop Turns Into High-Speed Pursuit
According to Dade County Sheriff Ray Cross, deputies initially attempted to stop a vehicle for an equipment violation after it exited Interstate 24 West onto Highway 299. Instead of complying, the driver made a sudden U-turn and re-entered the interstate, accelerating northbound in an attempt to flee law enforcement.
The pursuit quickly escalated as the suspect crossed the Tennessee–Georgia state line, heading toward the Haletown area at high speeds. Deputies reported reckless driving and repeated attempts by the driver to evade capture.
PIT Maneuver and Deputy Collision
During the chase, a Dade County deputy attempted a PIT maneuver in an effort to safely end the pursuit. Although the maneuver caused the suspect’s vehicle to spin, authorities say the driver regained control and continued driving in the opposite direction.
Moments later, the suspect’s vehicle struck a Dade County sergeant head-on, causing heavy damage to both vehicles. Despite the collision, the suspect continued fleeing, forcing law enforcement to shift tactics as the chase moved toward Jasper, Georgia.
Marion County Takes Over the Chase
As the pursuit entered Marion County, local deputies assumed the lead. The suspect’s vehicle ultimately crashed beneath an overpass at the intersection of State Route 28 and U.S. Highway 41, bringing the chase to a temporary stop.
When deputies exited their patrol cars and approached, authorities say the suspect fired two shots at law enforcement officers. No deputies returned fire, and no officers were struck during the exchange.
Suspect Arrested After Firing at Deputies
Investigators report that the suspect attempted to restart his damaged vehicle but was unsuccessful. With officers surrounding the scene, deputies safely removed him from the car and placed him into custody.
The suspect was identified as Stephen Pyles, 52, of Jamestown, Tennessee. Sheriff Cross confirmed that Pyles had multiple outstanding felony warrants at the time of his arrest.
Guns, Drugs, and Cash Recovered
A search of the suspect and his vehicle led to the discovery of a significant cache of illegal items, including:
- Three firearms
- Approximately half a pound of suspected cocaine
- Approximately half a pound of suspected methamphetamine
- $28,000 in cash
Authorities believe the narcotics were intended for distribution, and the quantity seized has prompted additional felony charges.
Multiple Charges Filed Across Two Counties
The Marion County Sheriff’s Office charged Pyles with shooting at law enforcement officers, along with several related offenses tied to the pursuit and crash.
Meanwhile, the Dade County Sheriff’s Office issued additional warrants for drug trafficking, felony fleeing and eluding, and numerous traffic violations stemming from the initial stop and subsequent chase.
Despite the severity of the incident, officials confirmed that no deputies or bystanders were seriously injured.
Sheriff Praises Deputies and Interagency Cooperation
Sheriff Cross praised his deputies and partnering agencies for their response, emphasizing the risks officers face during such incidents.
“This guy proved that he would try to do absolutely anything not to get caught,” Cross said. “I thank God that he didn’t seriously hurt any officers, deputies, or bystanders, but society is better off with him being off the streets.”
He added that suspects like Pyles pose a direct threat to communities, stating that such individuals show “absolutely no regard for anyone else.”
Agencies Thanked for Joint Effort
The Dade County Sheriff’s Office expressed gratitude to multiple agencies that assisted during the incident, including the Trenton Police Department, Dade County Dispatch, Marion County Sheriff’s Office, and Jasper Police Department.
“This is what happens when we all work so well together,” officials noted, highlighting the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts across jurisdictions.
Ongoing Investigation
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities await laboratory confirmation of the suspected narcotics and continue processing evidence related to the firearms and cash seizure. Additional charges are possible pending further review.
Residents are encouraged to remain alert and report suspicious activity to local law enforcement.
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