Two Face Charges After High Speed Pursuit

Tennessee Highway Patrol arrested a Smithville and an Elizabethton man on multiple charges after leading officials on a high-speed pursuit Friday.

Gregory Roberts of Smithville faces multiple charges including Felony Evading, Felony Reckless Endangerment, Driving While Revoked 5th Offense, DUI 2nd Offense, Open Container, Speeding, Improper Passing, Due Care, and Proof of Insurance.

Officials charged William Pritchard of Elizabethton with DUI by Allowance.

Around 11:18 pm, officials traveling east on Interstate 40 near the 292-mile marker engaged a vehicle driving at a rate of speed estimated to be 95 miles per hour in a 70 miles per hour zone.

The vehicle accelerated to speeds over 115 miles per hour during the pursuit. Incident reports indicate that the pursuit lasted from the 292 eastbound mile marker until the 301 eastbound mile marker.

The vehicle exited the I-40 at the exit 301. At the bottom of the ramp, the vehicle ran off the right side of the roadway, struck a ditch, and then struck a roadway sign before coming to final rest off the right side of the roadway facing north.

Authorities identified the driver as Roberts and Pritchard as the passenger and registered owner of the vehicle.

Officials determined Roberts to be under the influence of alcohol.