Armed man leads police, deputies on pursuit that reaches 100 m.p.h.

WAUKESHA CO. (WITI) -- A 31-year-old Pleasant Prairie man led police and deputies on a pursuit early Saturday, November 1st that reached speeds up to 100 miles an hour. Officials identify the suspect as Timothy Zegar.

Deputies first saw Zegar's vehicle shortly after 3:30 a.m. -- it was the subject of a message sent out by the Caledonia Police Department. The vehicle was apparently taken without permission from the owner in Caledonia. Officers were also told Zegar was armed with a .38 cal handgun with extra rounds -- and could be intoxicated.

As deputies initiated the traffic stop, using emergency lights and sirens, the suspect vehicle it increased its speed, refusing to stop. A pursuit was initiated by deputies -- and it ended in Muskego when the vehicle became stuck in a marsh.

The pursuit took place over a total 10.2 miles with speeds reaching 100 m.p.h. in a 55 m.p.h. zone.

"This is a reckless, very very dangerous individual," said Chris Schmaling, Racine County Sheriff.

4 a.m. on Saturday morning it was hard to make out what exactly was going on. In the light of day you can just follow the grass beaten tire tracks until you see where 31-year-old Zegar was arrested.

Zegar was wanted for stealing a truck from the village of Caledonia. Deputies spotted him in the Village of Rochester and that's when he gave chase.

"The individual was believed to be intoxicated, had a history of driving while intoxicated and was also believed to be armed with a firearm," said Schmaling.

For 10 miles Zegar sped down side roads until there were no more roads left. That's when things got sticky.

"His vehicle became stuck in a marsh area," said Schmaling.

Water-logged, the chase was over and Zegar was arrested.

Zegar was taken into custody and turned over to the Racine County Jail on the following charges:

The following agencies assisted during the pursuit and arrest: Wisconsin State Patrol, Muskego Police Department, Waukesha Sheriff Department, and New Berlin Police Department.

 

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