BLUEFIELD, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A routine traffic stop turned into a high-speed chase on December 22, 2024, when a black Infiniti with a defective headlight fled from authorities, endangering numerous drivers and pedestrians before ending in arrests.
According to Deputy D.W. Lester, the incident began on Cherry Street near Bluefield Hospital when the Infiniti failed to stop after being signaled to pull over. The driver, later identified as Eric Robinson, sped onto Stadium Drive and headed toward the state line at a dangerously high speed, nearly colliding with vehicles attending the Holiday of Lights event at Bluefield City Park.
The pursuit continued into Bluefield, Virginia, with Robinson recklessly navigating intersections and driving on the wrong side of the road. As he approached Leatherwood Lane, Robinson ignored a red light before merging onto U.S. Route 460 Eastbound, reaching speeds of over 100 mph. Several motorists were forced off the road to avoid collisions.
Bluefield West Virginia Police terminated the pursuit near the John Nash Boulevard exit due to the growing danger. However, West Virginia State Police (WVSP) intercepted the fleeing vehicle near Wytheville, Virginia, successfully stopping it after a brief chase.
Robinson and his passenger, Jorgia Nelson, were taken into custody. A 3-year-old child, the couple’s son, was also found in the vehicle, prompting additional charges of child neglect.
During questioning, Nelson admitted to throwing a loaded AR-style rifle out of the vehicle’s passenger window near the John Nash Boulevard exit. Deputy Lester later recovered the weapon, identified as an “American Tactical” rifle with a 60-round drum magazine and a round in the chamber. The firearm, which had its buttstock removed, was booked into evidence at the Bluefield City Jail.
Robinson faces multiple felony charges, including:
•Fleeing from an officer with reckless indifference
•Child neglect creating a risk of injury or death
•Possession of a firearm by a prohibited person
Nelson also faces charges related to the incident.
Authorities confirmed Robinson’s prior felony conviction on November 13, 2014, for manufacturing and possessing controlled substances. Federal law prohibits him from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Both Robinson and Nelson were taken to jail. The 3-year-old child has been placed in protective care as investigations continue.
