I-95 Pursuit Ends in Multiple Crashes, Florida Driver Arrested
A driver from Florida was taken into custody Saturday after a lengthy pursuit on Interstate 95 through Virginia resulted in a series of crashes, reportedly impacting at least 13 vehicles. The incident began around 6:30 a.m. Near Petersburg and concluded around 11:50 a.m. In Spotsylvania County.
According to Virginia State Police, troopers initiated the chase after spotting a pickup truck with Florida license plates. The situation escalated near the Arthur Ashe Boulevard exit in Richmond, mile marker 78, when the driver intentionally rammed a car off the road. This initial act of aggression sparked a chain reaction, leading to multiple subsequent incidents along the busy interstate.
“It felt like a movie,” one individual reportedly told CBS 6, describing the experience of being rammed by the driver. The quote highlights the chaotic and frightening nature of the events as they unfolded.
While the chase covered a significant distance, authorities confirmed that no one sustained serious injuries. The driver, identified as 34-year-old Garrett Ryan Sulli, was ultimately arrested and charged with driving under the influence of drugs. He was taken into custody without further incident.
The incident caused significant disruption to traffic on I-95, a major north-south artery along the East Coast. The extended duration of the chase, spanning over five hours, and the number of vehicles involved underscore the potential for a far more tragic outcome.
Virginia State Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the chase and the subsequent crashes. They are urging anyone who witnessed the events, has additional information, or believes they may have been a victim to come forward. Individuals can contact Virginia State Police Division 1 Dispatch at 04-750-8758 or dial #77 on their cellphone. Alternatively, they can email questions to questions@vsp.virginia.gov.
This incident comes amid ongoing concerns about impaired driving and the dangers it poses to motorists. While details regarding Sulli’s motivation remain unclear, the case serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of driving under the influence.
The arrest took place on Valentine’s Day, adding an unusual element to the news. The contrast between the day associated with love and the violent events on the highway is striking.
Authorities have not released further details regarding the extent of the damage to the vehicles involved in the crashes. The investigation is ongoing, and additional information is expected to be released as it becomes available.
The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in pursuing potentially dangerous drivers while ensuring the safety of the public. The Virginia State Police’s response involved a coordinated effort to apprehend the suspect and mitigate the risk of further collisions.
