Woman Arrested after Dramatic Police Chase Ends Near Ohio River in Evansville
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A high-speed pursuit involving a suspect who threatened violence and brandished a knife culminated in an arrest near the Ohio River in Vanderburgh County, Indiana, early Thursday morning.The incident, wich unfolded over 18 minutes, involved a collision, a flight into the river, and a tense standoff with law enforcement.
Initial Investigation and Pursuit
The chase began shortly before 1:00 a.m.at the intersection of Sandpit and Old Green river Road when deputies initiated a traffic stop to investigate a suspicious vehicle. according to a sergeant with the Sheriff’s Office, the driver, later identified as Lindsay Sapp, instantly fled as authorities approached.
The pursuit quickly escalated, leading officers through city streets, including Pollack Avenue and eventually into downtown evansville. Sapp continued onto Waterworks road, where she encountered a set of stop sticks after crossing Highway 41.
Crash and River Escape
Despite hitting the stop sticks, Sapp continued driving, ultimately leaving the roadway and crashing into a tree on High-Howse Road, adjacent to the Ohio River. Following the collision,officials say Sapp exited the vehicle and fled on foot toward the water.
“She fled from the vehicle towards the Ohio River,” a senior official stated. As deputies converged on the scene, they repeatedly ordered Sapp to stop and show her hands. Sapp reportedly waded into the river, declaring her willingness to engage in violence.
Confrontation and Arrest
Deputies continued to issue commands for Sapp to exit the water. As she approached the shoreline, she allegedly presented a knife, prompting further concern from responding officers.
“She presented a knife,” according to officers at the scene. “She was ordered to stop and drop the knife but continued to walk towards deputies with it held in her right hand.” Sapp eventually dropped the weapon and was taken into custody without further incident.
Charges and Ongoing Investigation
Following her arrest, Sapp was transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation before being booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail. She faces multiple charges, including:
- Intimidation with a Deadly Weapon
- Reckless Driving
- Resisting Law Enforcement
- Operating a Vehicle with Intoxicated Endangerment
Authorities have indicated that the investigation is ongoing, and further details may emerge as the case progresses. The incident began with a traffic stop for a suspicious vehicle,escalated into a high-speed chase through Evansville,and ended with Sapp’s arrest after she fled into the Ohio River and brandished a knife. Sapp ultimately surrendered and was taken into custody without further injury to herself or officers.
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This is a developing story and will be updated as more facts becomes available.
(Vanderburgh County Sheriff’s Office)
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