High-Speed Chase Ends Safely After 8-Year-Old Found in Back Seat

Authorities from multiple agencies worked together to end a high-speed pursuit spanning Mesa and Garfield counties, ensuring the safety of an 8-year-old child who was in the back seat of the fleeing vehicle.

Pursuit Begins in Mesa County

The chase began early Wednesday morning at approximately 9:00 AM in Mesa County. Regina Johnson, the driver, fled a routine traffic stop along I-70. Law enforcement, including the Mesa County Sheriff’s Office and the Colorado State Patrol, initially refrained from pursuing the vehicle to minimize risk to other drivers and those inside the car.

Johnson’s actions quickly turned what could have been a simple stop into a dangerous, high-speed situation.

Garfield County Prepares

By 9:30 AM, the Garfield County Sheriff’s Office, along with its Special Problems Enforcement and Response (SPEAR) team, took over preparations for intercepting the fleeing vehicle. The pursuit began in earnest around mile marker 68 on I-70, bringing additional urgency as officers realized the car contained a child.

Collaborative Efforts Lead to a Resolution

Officers from the Parachute Police Department, Colorado State Patrol, and Garfield County worked in coordination. Using stop sticks deployed at mile marker 78, they successfully deflated the vehicle’s tires, bringing the chase to an end without injury.

Charges Filed Against the Driver

Throughout the chase, Johnson had an 8-year-old child in the back seat. Her reckless actions led to multiple charges, including:

Felony Eluding
Reckless Driving with a Suspended License
Child Abuse

The child was unharmed and is now safe. Johnson was taken into custody and transported to the Garfield County Jail. Her vehicle was impounded.

Prioritizing Public and Child Safety

Authorities emphasized that their cautious approach during the initial phase of the pursuit was essential in protecting public safety. The decision to deploy stop sticks was made only after careful planning, underscoring the balance law enforcement must maintain between apprehending suspects and protecting lives.