LONDON, KY — Laurel County Sheriff John Root is reporting that: Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Daniel Reed arrested Michael Elmon Root, Jr., age 26, of London on Saturday night July 19, 2025 at approximately 10:52 PM.
The arrest occurred off KY 30 approximately 4 miles north of London following a pursuit that began off KY 638 after deputies were dispatched by London – Laurel County 911 Communication Ctr. to a fight complaint at apartments there.
As deputies were enroute to the scene information was received that a white vehicle had fled the scene. Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Robert Smith observed the white colored suspect vehicle, a Chrysler 300 series, and attempted a traffic stop by initiating his emergency equipment, however, the vehicle failed to stop traveling through streets in London and onto KY 30. Approximately 4 miles north of London the vehicle veered into the wrong lane of traffic slamming on his brakes intentionally on the wet roadway causing Deputy Smith's cruiser to collide with his vehicle. The male driver then fled into the woods leaving a female passenger behind.
Deputies were able to develop information on who the suspect was and made contact with him by cell phone learning that he wanted to turn himself in. The suspect was lost in the woods not able to find his way out. Deputies notified the London – Laurel County Rescue Squad to bring their drone to the area to help locate the suspect and a short time later through the use of the drone, deputies were able to locate the suspect in the woods taking him into custody without incident.
Utilizing a Laurel County Rescue Squad drone, deputies located, rescued and arrested the suspect in the woods without incident. Pictured is: L to R: Laurel Deputy Adam Napier, Deputy Matt Walker, the accused Michael Root, Jr., and Deputy Justin Lewis. (Photo: By arresting deputies)
It was learned through investigation that allegedly this individual had fled because he knew he had outstanding warrants. Deputies confirmed that there were three outstanding warrants.
Michael Root, Jr. (left) was charged with:
- Fleeing or evading police – first-degree – motor vehicle
- Fleeing or evading police – first-degree – on foot
- Wanton endangerment – first-degree – police officer is victim
- Wanton endangerment – first-degree
In addition, the suspect was charged on:
- Three outstanding warrants
This individual was lodged in the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Photo of the accused is courtesy the Laurel County Correctional Center.
Photo of the suspect being brought out of the woods is courtesy the of arresting deputies.
Deputy Robert Smith was transported to St. Joseph Hospital London, and treated and released. There were no injuries to Michael Root Jr., or his female passenger. She was not charged.
Deputies assisting at the scene included: Laurel Sheriff's Deputy Matt Walker, Deputy Adam Napier, Deputy Justin Lewis, shift Sgt. Robert Smith, and Lieut. Brett Reeves. Other agencies assisting included: London – Laurel County Rescue Squad, East Bernstadt Fire and Rescue, Laurel County EMS
