CAPTION: CREDIT HPD
A Hutchinson man was arrested yesterday following a pursuit that resulted in a two-vehicle collision.
According to Hutchinson Police Department (HPD), at approximately 3:20 p.m. agents with the Department of Corrections Enforcement, Apprehension, and Investigation (EAI) Task Force located a wanted subject, James M. Smith, 36, near 11th Ave. and Severance Street.
Before they were able to make contact, Smith left the area in a vehicle and fled HPD. Officers did not pursue Smith at that time due to Smith’s history of fleeing from law enforcement.
Smith was later located walking near 12th Ave. and Milcon Street.
Smith was reportedly armed with a handgun and fled from officers on foot. Kansas Highway Patrol (KHP) located Smith after he got back in his vehicle and fled the area. A pursuit ensued at that time.
At approximately 3:48 p.m., Smith ran a stop sign at 4th Ave. and Maple Street striking another vehicle that was occupied by one person. He then fled on foot, and while doing so fired a shot from his handgun.
HPD stated it is believed that Smith was not firing the handgun at pursuing officers. Smith was taken into custody a short time later.
One citizen suffered minor injuries from the crash caused by Smith. No officers were injured.
Smith was arrested for Felony Flee and Elude, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Aggravated Battery, Felony Interference with Law Enforcement, Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Reckless Driving, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm, and Three Felony Warrants.
The KHP is the lead agency on the crash investigation and HPD is the lead agency on the criminal investigation.
Smith is being held with no bond at this time.
All defendants are innocent unless they are found guilty in court. Please direct any questions regarding this case to the Office of the District Attorney at 620-694-2715.
