A Minden police officer conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 20 eastbound near the 49-mile marker after observing a black Dodge car traveling at 85 mph in a 70 mph zone. The incident led to a high-speed chase that concluded with the arrest of the driver, identified as Kobe Elkins, 17.
The officer activated emergency lights and sirens, but the vehicle maneuvered from the left lane to the right lane, using an 18-wheeler to obscure the pursuit. The vehicle then moved onto the right shoulder with no headlights or tail lights illuminated. The officer notified dispatch and continued the pursuit, with the vehicle switching between the shoulder and the left lane.
Traffic conditions were moderate, with three 18-wheelers and two passenger vehicles present during the chase. The suspect’s vehicle reached speeds up to 120 mph before stopping on the right shoulder due to engine damage.
The officer ordered all occupants to place their hands outside the vehicle and for Elkins to exit the vehicle. Elkins complied, was handcuffed, and advised of his Miranda rights. The two passengers, both 17-year-olds, were also frisked, advised of their rights, and questioned.
A secondary officer arrived, and the passengers contacted a parent, who took them from the scene as the vehicle was towed. Elkins was transported to Minden Police Department for booking. Elkins was charged with two counts of exceeding the maximum speed limit, aggravated flight, failure to use illuminating devices, and passing on the right.
Elkins was found to possess a valid license and had no prior criminal history according to NCIC records.
All subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.