CENTRALIA — The second high-speed chase of the weekend raced through Centralia and ended just before 8 p.m. Sunday when the 38-year-old suspect reportedly crashed into a utility pole at Blackberry Run and Route 161.
Speeds reportedly reached more than 100 mph on Route 161 before the driver, Tselekis Woodcock, of Belleville, crashed at Blackberry Run, taking out a section of a utility pole at the ground.
It is unclear the extent of injuries Woodcock suffered, however,it was initially reported he was being airlifted to St. Louis.
According to Centralia police, once the vehicle came to a stop, Woodcock attempted to run from the vehicle, but was apprehended a short distance away.
Marion County Sheriff’s deputies and Centralia police subsequently responded to the Emergency Room at SSM St. Mary’s Hospital after the suspect was transported there by ambulance.
Remnants of four marijuana joints were reportedly found on Woodcock and he reportedly told authorities he had used cannabis and consumed alcohol earlier in the day.
Woodcock is expected to be charged with driving under the influence and illegal lane usage in relation to the crash.