Maryville, TN – A man is facing several charges after a police pursuit that began in Blount County Friday evening ended in a crash in Knox County, leaving one person injured.
According to the Blount County Sheriff’s Office, a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle that had been reported stolen on Old Knoxville Highway near Sam Houston School Road. When the driver of the vehicle failed to pull over, the deputy initiated a pursuit, which continued into Knox County.
The Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) reported that the stolen vehicle, a 2017 Honda Civic, was traveling north on Chapman Highway when it collided head-on with a 2002 Honda Accord. The Honda Accord was attempting to make a left turn near the intersection of Mountain Grove Drive.
Three people were inside the stolen vehicle, including two men and a woman. All three individuals were evaluated at the scene by emergency medical responders but were not transported to a hospital. The driver of the stolen vehicle, identified as 30-year-old Joshua Mayes, was arrested at the scene. Mayes now faces multiple charges, including two counts of vehicular assault, one count of driving under the influence (DUI), and one count of aggravated assault.
The driver of the Honda Accord, a woman, was injured in the crash and was transported to a local hospital. Fortunately, her injuries are believed to be non-life-threatening.
Authorities confirmed that the driver of the stolen vehicle is also facing charges related to the stolen car.
The crash, which occurred shortly before sunset, highlights the risks associated with high-speed chases and the dangerous consequences for both law enforcement and the public. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the incident.
