LIVERMORE, Ky. —On Thursday June 27, 2019 Kentucky State Police Trooper Adam Wright was patrolling McLean County and observed a 2000 Saturn Aura speeding south on US 431 just after 2:00 PM.
Trooper Wright conducted a traffic stop on the Saturn in Island Kentucky for the speeding infraction. As Trooper Wright approached the vehicle, the operator sped away from the stop.
While Trooper Wright was pursuing the fleeing vehicle, it was learned the vehicle was reported stolen from Owensboro.
The suspect drove south into Muhlenberg County and ultimately back into McLean County on KY 81. At times, speeds reached near 100 miles-per-hour.
As the vehicle pursuit was heading north, McLean County Sheriff’s deputies joined to assist.
The suspect drove onto Bunn Cobb Road, just south of Rumsey Kentucky.
Trooper Wright failed to see a sharp curve and crashed into an earth embankment.
The suspect continued to KY 138 and at KY 2110, McLean County sheriff deputies were able to box-in the suspect. He stopped and was arrested without further incident.
Kentucky State Police troopers identified the suspect as Tony E. Vanover, 50 of Owensboro. He was transported and lodged in the Daviess County Detention Center in Owensboro.
He was charged with the following offenses:
- Possession of a Controlled Substance (unspecified drugs) 1st Degree
- Receiving Stolen Property Over $10,000 (vehicle)
- No Insurance
- Wanton Endangerment 1st Degree – Police Officer
- Criminal Mischief 1st Degree
- Fleeing/Evading 1st Degree (vehicle)
- Speeding
- Disregarding a Traffic Control Device
- Failure to Use Turn Signals
Trooper Wright sustained minor facial lacerations and was treated at Owensboro Health Regional Hospital. His issued 2017 Dodge Charger sustained moderate to heavy damage.
Photo of the accused is courtesy of the Daviess County Detention Center
