JACKSON COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A late-night patrol in the Fairplain area of Jackson County led to a high-speed pursuit and K-9 apprehension after a reckless driver attempted to flee law enforcement.
At approximately 1:17 a.m., an officer observed a black Chevrolet Colorado pulling into Hinzman’s Auto Repair at 4226 Charleston Road. Knowing the business was closed, the officer moved in to investigate. Upon approach, the vehicle quickly exited the lot, turning onto Angel Ridge Road at an unsafe speed. When the officer activated emergency lights and siren, the driver refused to stop, continuing recklessly along the narrow road.
Near the 2800 block of Angel Ridge, the suspect abandoned the still-moving vehicle and fled into the woods. The officer deployed his K-9 partner, Rex, after issuing verbal warnings. The suspect, later identified as Kelly Joe Meadows, was located attempting to climb a tree. Rex successfully apprehended him until he could be taken into custody.
A second male was found inside the crashed vehicle. After brief detainment, it was determined he was not involved in the fleeing incident. He provided a statement on-site, emphasizing the danger posed by the driver’s reckless behavior.
Meadows was transported to Jackson General Hospital for medical clearance due to reported seizure activity and injuries sustained during the K-9 apprehension. He admitted to having epilepsy and not taking his medication. After being read his Miranda rights, he claimed to have no recollection of the incident.
Authorities confirmed that all criminal activity took place within Jackson County’s jurisdiction. Charges against Meadows are pending as the investigation continues.
