Two Men Charged After Police Pursuit Ends in Violent Six-Vehicle Crash in Montgomery County
Montgomery County, OH – Two men have been criminally charged following a high-speed police pursuit that culminated in a chaotic six-vehicle crash and left one person hospitalized. According to the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO), the incident began when a GMC Sierra pickup truck fled a routine traffic stop initiated by an officer from the Perry Township Police Department.
Authorities say the vehicle, which had multiple occupants, recklessly sped through several jurisdictions in western Ohio. Law enforcement officers from surrounding agencies assisted as the chase crossed into multiple areas, with the suspects reportedly weaving through traffic at dangerous speeds and disregarding traffic laws.
The Pursuit and Crash
The pursuit ended in disaster when the fleeing vehicle collided with multiple other cars, leading to a six-vehicle pileup. MCSO reported that the crash caused significant damage to all involved vehicles and resulted in injuries to at least one individual, who remains hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries.
Following the crash, all occupants of the pickup truck attempted to flee the scene on foot, but they were quickly apprehended by law enforcement officers after a brief foot pursuit.
Suspects and Charges
The driver of the vehicle, identified as James Collins, was immediately taken into custody and booked into the Montgomery County Jail. Collins now faces multiple felony charges stemming from the dangerous pursuit and the resulting crash. His charges include:
•Fleeing and Eluding
•Vehicular Assault
•Obstructing Official Business
Another individual, Thomas Downey, who police say was riding in the bed of the truck during the pursuit, has been charged with the same offenses. While Downey was not immediately taken into custody, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office has issued a warrant for his arrest.
Investigation Ongoing
Authorities confirmed that there were at least two additional individuals in the vehicle at the time of the pursuit. Their identities have not been released, and prosecutors are still reviewing possible charges related to their involvement in the incident.
The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office praised the quick action of responding officers, which helped bring the situation under control and prevent further injuries or property damage.
“This type of reckless behavior endangers lives and will not be tolerated,” a spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Office said. “We are committed to holding all individuals involved in this incident accountable.”
Community Impact and Safety Message
The crash, which occurred during daylight hours in a busy area, has raised concerns among local residents about the risks of high-speed chases through densely populated communities. Emergency responders and law enforcement personnel worked quickly to clear the scene and tend to the injured.
MCSO officials reiterated their commitment to community safety and encouraged residents to report any suspicious activity or information that may help locate Thomas Downey, who remains at large as of this publication.
Anyone with information on Downey’s whereabouts is urged to contact the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office or submit a tip anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
As the investigation continues and additional charges are considered, officials say the focus remains on ensuring public safety and accountability for those involved in this dangerous and preventable incident.