Pursuit across bridge lands Memphis man behind bars in Arkansas

Williams facing multiple charges after chase ends in West Memphis

By Ralph Hardin

news@theeveningtimes.com

A Memphis man was arrested Monday last week after leading Arkansas State Police on yet another high-speed chase that reached over 140 mph on Interstate 40. The pursuit ended with a tactical vehicle intervention (TVI) and the discovery of marijuana and drug paraphernalia, according to authorities.

At approximately 8:00 p.m. on Feb. 3, 2025, Trooper Dylan Evans observed an orange and black Dodge Charger speeding east on I40. Using radar, Evans confirmed the vehicle was traveling 83 mph in a 65-mph zone. After initiating a traffic stop, Evans made contact with the driver, Brandon Williams, who provided only a Tennessee driver’s license and could not produce proof of insurance or vehicle registration.

While speaking with Williams, Trooper Evans dettected a strong odor of marijuana coming from inside the car.

When questioned about the presence of marijuana, Williams denied having any but did admit to having smoked the drug earlier. However, as Evans instructed him to step out of the vehicle, Williams abruptly restarted the engine and fled the scene at a high rate of speed.

Trooper C. Wright quickly took primary position in the pursuitweaving through traffic and reaching speeds exceeding 140 mph. Authorities reported that Williams showed no regard for public safety, using multiple lanes to evade capture.

Just before reaching the state line, Trooper Wright perfrmed a TVI maneuver, forcing the Charger to a stop. As Williams attempted to push past Wright’s vehicle to continue fleeing, Trooper Evans arrived and pinned the vehicle from behind.

During the encounter, officers observed Williams throw a plastic bag from his window, which landed against the concrete barrier wall. After being taken into custody without further incident, officers recovered the bag and determined it contained approximately 90 grams of marijuana. A further search of Williams uncovered a small amount of marijuana in his pocket, and inside the vehicle, a digital scale was found between the front passenger seat and door.

The suspect sustained a small laceration above his left eye during the pursuit and reported having a headache.

Upon arrival at the Crittenden County Detention Center, EMS evaluated his injuries before clearing him for processing.

Williams now faces multiple charges, including speeding, no insurance, reckless driving, fleeing, criminal mischief , possession of drug paraphernalia, and possession with intent to deliver a Schedule VI substance greater than 14 grams but less than four ounces.

He is being held at the Crittenden Couinty Detention Center on a $75,000 bond Trooper Wright’s patrol unit sustained over $5,000 in damages as a result of the chase.

Photo courtesy of ASP

WILLIAMS