Augusta County, Virginia – A pursuit through the Blue Ridge Parkway ended with a suspect arrested Monday after deputies deployed tire deflation devices.
According to the Augusta County Sheriff’s Office, deputies were dispatched Monday, March 9 to a suspicious activity call in the 700 block of Elk Mountain Lane in the Afton area of Augusta County.
Authorities said a deputy located a red Subaru leaving the driveway connected to the call. Investigators say the driver allegedly drove into a ditch and then attempted to circle around the deputy before fleeing the area.
The deputy activated emergency equipment, but the vehicle allegedly refused to stop and exited Elk Mountain Lane onto the Blue Ridge Parkway, initiating a pursuit.
According to the sheriff’s office, the chase continued along the parkway into Rockbridge County before returning into Augusta County.
At one point, authorities say the suspect vehicle pulled into an overlook near Irish Creek and appeared to attempt backing toward an Augusta County deputy’s vehicle.
Deputies then deployed tire deflation devices, which successfully disabled the tires. Investigators say the suspect continued driving despite the damage, allegedly fleeing until the vehicle became disabled.
Officials said the driver then exited the vehicle and was taken into custody.
The suspect was identified as Scott Wayne Fitzgerald, 34, of Mount Sidney.
According to the sheriff’s office, Fitzgerald was charged with:
- Reckless Driving (Virginia Code 46.2-852)
- Felony Eluding (Virginia Code 46.2-817)
Authorities said Fitzgerald is currently being held without bond at Middle River Regional Jail.
The sheriff’s office credited assistance from the Wintergreen Police Department, Rockbridge County Sheriff’s Office, and Virginia State Police.
Officials said Virginia State Police are handling the crash investigation connected to the incident.
Incidents involving pursuits along the Blue Ridge Parkway can also impact regional travel routes frequently used by commuters and tourism workers.
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