From The Tribune staff reports
DECATUR — A man is now in custody after a high-speed chase up Interstate 65 on Sunday, Dec. 20, 2020.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) says the chase started around 5:19 p.m. when a trooper attempted to pull over a 2004 Toyota Avalon near the 277 mile-marker, in Jefferson County. The driver refused to stop, reaching speeds of up to 115 miles per hour.
The chase went through Blount County into Cullman County, where deputies spiked the vehicle’s tires. But the car continued into Morgan County where the driver was apprehended near mile-marker 329.
“Cullman County Sheriff’s Office, Morgan County Sheriff’s Office, Falkville Police Department, Hartselle Police Department, and Priceville Police Departments all assisted in the pursuit and capture,” Trooper Brandon Bailey said.
The driver, Donald Jay Vinet, Jr., 24, of Ward, was charged with speeding, attempting to elude law enforcement and reckless driving. Vinet was transported to the Jefferson County Jail where he was booked.
A female occupant was taken into custody and later released.
The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continues to investigate.