On May 19th, 2016 just after 1:00 PM the Toledo Police Department received information that a maroon Chevrolet pickup being driven by Charles Hutton was in the Toledo area and allegedly involved in the active distribution of narcotics while being in possession of a firearm. At approximately 1:22 PM Detective Pitcher located the vehicle near NW 9th Street and Burgess Road. After observing numerous traffic violations the Detective attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the pickup on Business Highway 20 near NW Ridge Road. The pickup then rapidly accelerated away from the Officer east bound on Business Highway 20, quickly reaching speeds above 80 MPH.
Almost immediately after initiating the pursuit the Officers made the decision to terminate the pursuit due to danerousness as it approached a construction zone on Business Highway 20 near the East Junction of Highway 20. The suspect vehicle continued through the construction zone striking and injuring the flagger on the west side of the construction zone. A flagger on the east side of the construction zone was also injured as they made an effort to dive out of the way of the suspect vehicle. The speed of the vehicle through the construction zone was estimated to be between 80-100 MPH.
The Officers lost sight of the vehicle as it continued east bound onto Highway 20. The construction workers were treated at Samaritan Pacific Communities Hospital for their injuries. Through investigation Officers confirmed the driver of the vehicle was in fact Charles Hutton and they have also identified a passenger in the vehicle. On 05-20-2016 members of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office located the suspect vehicle unoccupied in the Harlan area. The vehicle has been towed for investigative purposes.
At this time probable cause exists for the arrest of Mr. Hutton for two counts of failing to perform the duties of a driver where injury occurred, two counts of failing to perform the duties of a driver where property is damaged, seven counts of recklessly endangering a highway worker, felony attempt to elude in a vehicle, reckless driving, and recklessly endangering.
Police are asking if you see Mr. Hutton to and report it to your local authorities. If you have information regarding the pursuit please contact:
Detective Pitcher
Toledo Police Department. 541-336-5555
Information and photo provided by Toledo Police
