Linn County Sheriff Michelle Duncan announced on March 18 that a vehicle pursuit in Sweet Home ended with the arrest of a local resident. The incident began at approximately 7:42 p.m. when a deputy observed a grey Mazda 3 traveling westbound on Highway 228 at high speed and without headlights.
According to the sheriff’s office, the Mazda crossed into the oncoming lane and continued driving dangerously, prompting the deputy to activate emergency lights and siren in an attempt to stop the vehicle. The driver did not stop and continued driving in the wrong lane around blind corners and hills, still without headlights.
During the pursuit, three other vehicles were reportedly forced off the roadway by the Mazda, nearly causing collisions. The deputy was unable to identify those drivers but continued pursuing due to concerns for public safety.
The chase ended on Upper Calapooia Drive when the Mazda stopped in the middle of the road. The driver, identified as Rachel Adams, 32, of Sweet Home, was taken into custody without further incident. Deputies reported signs of impairment and obtained a search warrant for a breath sample at Linn County Jail. Adams registered a blood alcohol content of .20 percent, more than twice the legal limit. She was lodged at Linn County Jail on charges including felony fleeing or attempting to elude police, driving under the influence of intoxicants (DUII), and reckless driving.
The Linn County Sheriff’s Office is asking any drivers who were forced off the road during this incident to contact them with additional information that could assist in their investigation.
