Multi-Agency Effort Ends Dangerous Vehicle Pursuit, Suspect in Custody
In the evening of November 14, 2024, there was a dangerous pursuit that ended with the arrest of a suspect, thanks to the coordinated efforts of the Parsons Police Department and the Labette County Sheriff's Office.
The incident began at approximately 10:55 PM when Parsons Police Officer Tyller White initiated a traffic stop for a vehicle that had defective equipment. The vehicle then shut off all lights to elude the officer. The vehicle refused to yield to emergency lights and sirens near 14th and Crawford in Parsons. The suspect vehicle, a white Chevrolet truck had no visible registration, fled east out of town, prompting a multi-officer pursuit that spanned numerous roads, including U.S. Highway 400, Northern Boulevard, and 24000 Road.
During the pursuit, the suspect, identified as Marsha Evans, displayed reckless behavior, including off-road driving, erratic maneuvers, and attempting to evade law enforcement by traveling at high speeds.
Officers effectively deployed Stop Stick tire deflation device, near the west intersection of 24000 Road and U.S. Highway 400 (west tie-in). The deployment successfully deflated the vehicle's passenger-side tires. Despite this, the suspect continued driving, further endangering public safety.
Labette County Sheriff's Deputies provided critical assistance by boxing in the suspect vehicle to reduce its speed. During this maneuver, Evans struck one of the sheriff's patrol vehicles, causing damage while the deputy and his K9 partner were inside.
The pursuit concluded just past the intersection of 32nd Street and U.S. Highway 400 when Evans veered off the road into the ditch where she could not get out. Officers quickly apprehended Evans, who exhibited signs of intoxication and admitted to ingesting drugs. She was arrested and transported to the Parsons Police Department for processing.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered substances suspected of being illegal narcotics. A field test confirmed the presence of methamphetamine. The evidence was collected and logged for further investigation.
Marsha Marie Evans, 39 of McCune, was arrested and the following charges have been sent to the Labette County Attorney's Office for official charging: Felony Fleeing and Eluding Law Enforcement, Possession of Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Aggravated Battery on Law Enforcement, Driving Under the Influence, Criminal Damage and a litany of traffic offenses from driving while suspended to speeding. Evans faces 17 total charges for her actions.
Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks praised the coordinated efforts of all agencies involved. "This incident highlights the importance of teamwork and communication in ensuring public safety. Pursuits are inherently dangerous, but through disciplined tactics and collaboration, our officers brought this to a safe conclusion without injury to the public. I sincerely hope that Evans gets the help she needs and that the courts understand and hold her accountable for the danger that she put everyone who was on the road during her pursuit."
The Parsons Police Department reminds residents that fleeing law enforcement not only puts lives at risk but also carries severe legal consequences. Anyone witnessing suspicious activity is encouraged to report it immediately to local authorities.
This continues to be an on-going investigation, and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspdks.gov.
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