A citizen’s quick action led to the recovery of a runaway juvenile and the arrest of an impaired driver late Friday night.
According to Tupelo Police, around 11:39 p.m. on May 2, a concerned citizen reported a possible physical altercation between a male and female inside a moving vehicle on I-22. Officers quickly responded and located the blue Chevrolet Avalanche, attempting a traffic stop near West Barnes Crossing Road.
The driver failed to stop immediately, continuing westbound for nearly two miles before eventually pulling over. Officers conducted a felony traffic stop and detained both individuals without incident.
The adult male driver was arrested and charged with first-offense DUI and fleeing law enforcement. The female passenger was identified as a runaway juvenile from Memphis, Tennessee, who had been missing since August 2024. She was turned over to the Lee County Sheriff’s Department Juvenile Detention Center.
Because the juvenile is believed to have been staying in Lee County, the Sheriff’s Department has taken over the investigation related to her status and circumstances.
Tupelo Police Chief John Quaka praised the citizen who made the call.
“This is a great example of how the community and law enforcement can work together,” Chief Quaka said. “When citizens speak up, it gives us the opportunity to act quickly, protect those involved, and prevent further harm.”
Authorities are continuing to investigate.
