ALLEN COUNTY, Ind. — A Thursday evening police pursuit involving the Fort Wayne Police Department (FWPD) concluded with the arrest of two individuals, Sarah Harris, 34, and Jeremy Hollis, 32, in northwest Allen County. Both suspects are wanted in multiple states for department store thefts.
Incident Details
The FWPD responded to a call from Target at 1102 South Thomas Road around 7 p.m. regarding “unwanted persons” reportedly involved in prior thefts. Upon arrival, officers identified a vehicle associated with the suspects.
An attempted traffic stop led to a high-speed police pursuit across southwest and northwest Fort Wayne, extending into northwest Allen County. Due to poor weather and the risks posed by high speeds, FWPD terminated the chase after approximately 10 minutes.
Discovery and Arrest
Shortly after, officers received a report of a “suspicious vehicle” near Felger Road and U.S. 33, matching the description of the pursued car. The vehicle was found unoccupied, with footprints leading into dense woods.
FWPD, joined by officers from the Allen County Police Department (ACPD), Indiana State Police (ISP), and the FWPD Air Support Unit, initiated a search of the area. After 30 minutes, Harris and Hollis were located hiding under brush in a makeshift hole.
Medical Complications and Rescue Efforts
Officers noted Harris appeared disoriented. Hollis informed them that Harris had seizures and had ingested an unknown substance. The adverse weather conditions, including snow and swampy terrain, exacerbated the situation.
Emergency responders, including Northwest Allen County Fire and Medics, worked alongside officers to administer life-saving measures to Harris. The treacherous conditions delayed their ability to reach Harris and transport her to safety. After nearly 50 minutes, Harris was carried out of the woods and taken to a nearby hospital in serious condition.
Hollis was detained and transported to FWPD headquarters for questioning.
Current Status
Harris was medically treated and released on Friday before being booked into the Allen County Jail. The FWPD confirmed that both suspects face charges, including corrupt business influence and theft, and are under investigation by the Allen County Prosecutor’s Office.
The incident remains under active investigation.