SHAWNEE COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after a police chase and crash.
Just before 4:30 a.m. Friday, police attempted to stop a vehicle for reckless driving near the area of SW Ninth Street and SW Parkview Street in Topeka, according to spokesperson Rosie Nichols.
The driver of the vehicle initiated a pursuit. Officers then discontinued the pursuit due to excess speeds. A short time later, police located the vehicle near the area of SE Sixth Street and SE Golden Avenue.
A traffic stop was attempted and the vehicle initiated another pursuit. The suspect, later identified as Alejandro R. Rodriguez, 23, of Topeka, lost control near SW 17th Street and SW Washburn Avenue and crashed into a tree and light pole.
Rodriguez attempted to flee on foot but was then located by officers and taken to the Law Enforcement Center for questioning.
A passenger, identified as Julian A. Galicia, 22, of Topeka, was determined to have a warrant for his arrest and was booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on that warrant. No injuries were reported from this incident.
Rodriguez was later arrested and booked into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on the on requested charges that include Aggravated Assault of a law enforcement officer, Defective Muffler, Racing on Highways, Reckless Driving, Fleeing or attempting to elude an LEO, Flee or attempt to elude; avoid tire deflation device, Fail to stop at stop sign, Interference with LEO, Speeding, Driving while license suspended, Transport open container of liquor and Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol.