HUMBOLDT — Two people are in custody following a 34-minute car chase Wednesday that started in Yates Center and ended in Humboldt.
Kansas Highway Patrol spokesman Rick Wingate said James Waggoner, Erie, was driving a black 2000 Jeep Grand Cherokee when officers attempted to stop him for an apparent traffic violation in Yates Center.
But rather than stop, Waggoner led deputies with the Woodson County Sheriff’s Department on a chase that traveled along U.S. 54 before zig-zagging along county roads south of the highway.
Eventually, Allen County sheriff’s deputies and KHP joined in the pursuit.
Officers deployed spike strips at the intersection of 300 Street and Hawaii Road, just outside Humboldt.
Wingate said the suspect apparently tried to evade the obstacle, but it still flattened one of his flat tires.
The pursuit continued into Humboldt before the flat tire rendered the suspect’s vehicle undrivable, and he stopped near Beachner Grain on Central Street.
Waggoner was wanted for multiple warrants out of Woodson County, Wingate said.
A passenger, Jessica Koopman, Iola, also had warrants for her arrest out of Allen County.
Wingate was uncertain what additional charges may be filed against the pair after the chase, noting information will be forwarded to county attorneys in both Woodson and Allen counties.
There were no injuries, and no collateral property damage, Wingate said.
