Talent, OR – Law enforcement agencies across Southern Oregon are actively searching for a man accused of leading officers on a high-speed chase and stealing multiple vehicles Monday morning.
According to the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office (JCSO), 55-year-old Billy Dean Gregory of O’Brien, Oregon, is wanted on outstanding warrants and faces several charges, including unlawful use of a motor vehicle, theft, reckless driving, and attempting to elude police.
Authorities say the pursuit began around 10:30 a.m. after Josephine County deputies responded to a stolen vehicle report on Interstate 5. The chase extended into Jackson County, where spike strips were deployed, but Gregory allegedly continued fleeing at high speeds before abandoning the vehicle near Ashland.
Deputies later located additional stolen vehicles in the Talent and Ashland areas. According to Emergency Communications of Southern Oregon (ECSO), the suspect was also reported stealing alcohol from a local liquor store before fleeing again.
Despite extensive searches, including K9 and drone teams, police were unable to locate Gregory. He was last seen around 1 p.m. Monday switching vehicles in the 5800 block of Colver Road in Talent.
Residents are urged to stay alert and contact 911 with any information on Gregory’s whereabouts. Authorities emphasize he may still be driving a stolen vehicle.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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