GALION—The Galion Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance to locate a man that evaded police during a high-speed chase.
According to Galion Police Chief Marc Rodriguez, an officer patrolling the area of Rt. 309 near Granny’s Kitchen observed a suspect exiting the parking lot of the closed restaurant. The officer was unable to read what appeared to be a temporary tag on the vehicle due to window tinting. The corner of the tag was turned under and not visible. The auto also had a loud exhaust.
The officer initiated a traffic stop, and the suspect fled. The suspect is John Murrell, 32, of Galion. Murrell fled north on East St., went eastbound on Edward’s St., north on Knorr Rd to Brandt Rd. and then north on route 598.
While the officer pursued Murrell, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office investigated a 911 call placed by a female passenger in the car. The female told a dispatcher she wanted out of the car, but Murrell refused to stop.
As more information became available on Murrell, it was learned that his last known address was the Spring Valley Mobile Home Park just outside of Galion.
When pursuit speeds reached around 90 mph, the decision was made for safety concerns to end the pursuit around the New Washington area.
Murrell, who had warrants out for his arrest, now faces charges of failure to comply, a felony of the third degree punishable with up to 36 months in prison.
The Crawford County Sherriff, New Washington Police, and The Ohio State Highway Patrol are assisting with the investigation.
The female passenger was released and is safe.
According to recent reports, Murrell’s abandoned vehicle has been located. The vehicle was recovered earlier today at 300 N. Main St., in New Washington.
If you have information regarding the whereabouts of John Murrell, you are asked to contact Detective Ryan Strange at the Galion Police Department at 419-468-9111 or call the confidential tip line at 419-468-3480.
Crawford County Now will continue to cover this developing story.