Driver had “regard for safety of others” during police chase that ended at weigh station

A truck driver that refused to stop for police operated in a safe manner during the pursuit, officers say. 

The chase occurred on Tuesday, December 3rd near Des Moines, Iowa starting at about 6:30 a.m. 

According to KCCI 8, police initially responded to calls reporting a semi truck dragging a chain on Interstate 80 near Underwood, creating sparks.Officers located the tractor trailer near Avoca, but the driver did not stop for police as directed, and continued along I-80. 

Several law enforcement agencies deployed stop sticks once the pursuit reached Des Moines, deflating several tires on the rig. The truck driver continued operating the semi truck on rims until about 8:10 a.m., when officers finally forced the rig to enter a roadside weigh station between Van Meter and Waukee exits. 

Officers then used tear gas to force the truck driver out of his cab and he was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation. 

Officers involved in the incident say that it is unclear why the truck driver would not stop, but it did not appear like he had malicious intent. 

“This driver actually was driving with a due regard for the safety of others,” said Sgt. Alex Dinkla. “(He) was taking measures to be safe as he was driving, even though he was not stopping for law enforcement.”

No further information has been released.