Van Buren, MO- In the late evening hours of July 9, 2025, extending into the early morning of July 10, 2025, members of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office responded to multiple reports of property damage caused by an erratic driver. The incident escalated into a dangerous pursuit, resulting in the suspect being taken into custody through a coordinated multi-agency effort.
Deputies initially responded to complaints regarding an erratic driver who subsequently crashed their vehicle. Following the crash, the suspect stole another vehicle in the area of M Highway, leading law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit. During the chase, the driver operated the stolen vehicle in a manner that created a substantial risk to public safety.
The pursuit concluded when the suspect drove the stolen vehicle into the river, then exited the vehicle and attempted to escape by swimming in the fast-moving current. Due to significant concerns for the suspect’s safety and the potential for continued criminal behavior, the Carter County Sheriff’s Office requested mutual aid from the Missouri State Water Patrol.
Shortly after the Water Patrol’s arrival, a sighting of the suspect was reported. Members of the Carter County Sheriff’s Office and the Van Buren Police Department quickly responded and successfully took the individual into custody.
Preliminary assessments indicate the suspect caused significant property damage prior to and during the pursuit. Information regarding the full extent of the damage is still being compiled. Of particular concern, a family, including small children, was camping approximately 20 feet from where the suspect drove over empty tents, demonstrating an immense disregard for community safety.
I am incredibly proud of our team’s response. Our deputies, Van Buren City officers, and the Missouri State Highway Patrol worked hard, safely, and never stopped until this dangerous individual was apprehended. Thank you to all our teams for always answering the call.
The suspect is currently being held on a 24-hour hold pending formal charges. Their name will be released upon the filing of those charges. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in the court of law.
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