Blue Earth County Deputies Apprehend Driver after Multi County High Speed Chase
On Saturday, February 15th Blue Earth County deputies responded to Highway 14 to assist with a pursuit westbound near Janesville. Waseca County deputies terminated the pursuit due to safety concerns just prior to Blue Earth County deputies arriving in the area. The suspect vehicle was described as a 2011 Audi Q5.
Blue Earth County deputies observed the suspect vehicle traveling over 100mph westbound on Highway 14 east of Eagle Lake. Deputies positioned their squads in multiple locations ahead of the Audi with their emergency lights activated to warn the public and as a signal for the driver to slow down or stop.
The driver continued westbound at speeds over 100 mph causing concerns that a serious crash would occur as traffic picked up closer to Mankato. Deputies continued their efforts to stop or slow the Audi including deployments of Stop Stick tire deflation devices. Other traffic on the highway complicated pursuit intervention techniques and the driver was able to avoid the Stop Sticks.
Due to the extreme speed, the driver slid off the roadway and hit a sign and small trees while attempting to take the County Road 12 exit from Highway 14. The driver fled on foot and was taken into custody a short distance from where the Audi came to rest in the ditch. Deputies identified the driver and only occupant as a16-year-old female.
The driver told deputies that she fled because she was afraid of getting in trouble after her mother threatened to report the car stolen following an argument. The were no injuries and the damaged property was limited to the Audi and a street sign. The driver remains in juvenile detention.
