Motorists and pedestrians got out of the way Sunday afternoon when Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department deputies pursued a fleeing suspect down Second Street.

Tuesday, December 28, 1999

Motorists and pedestrians got out of the way Sunday afternoon when Lawrence County Sheriff’s Department deputies pursued a fleeing suspect down Second Street.

Bobbie Blair, 2434 S. Sixth St., was arrested at about 2:21 p.m. Sunday on charges of possession of a weapon while under disability, possession of drugs, willful wanton disregard of safety on highways or streets, failure to comply with order or signal of a police officer, preparation of drugs for sale and carrying a concealed weapon, Chief Deputy Jim Cochran said.

"We pulled up behind him at Seventh (Street) and Park (Avenue)," Cochran said. "He was stopped at a stop sign. He appeared nervous, panicked and took off. He pulled out in front of another car and that gave us probable cause."

The chase, which involved speeds of 90 miles per hour at some points, ended near the Old River Cafe in Hanging Rock, Cochran said.

"Once he ran out of road, he decided to run on foot and we chased him down," he said.

During the chase, five bags of marijuana and a 9mm Ruger were thrown from the blue Blazer. Cochran recovered the discarded items, according to police reports.

"The chase took about nine minutes," he said. "We went about three and six-tenths miles to where he jumped out of the vehicle."

While in pursuit, several vehicles were pushed off the road, and anyone who would like to press charges is encouraged to do so, Cochran added.

"I’m guessing there were 10 or 12 vehicles, maybe 20, that were involved," he said. "Anybody that was run off the road during the pursuit, if they want to make a statement, they are more than welcome to."

Currently, Blair is in the Lawrence County Jail awaiting arraignment. Adult parole authority officials also have been contacted.

Others involved in the investigation included sheriff’s Deputy Dennis Murphy, the Coal Grove Police Department, the Hanging Rock Police Department and the Ironton Police Department.