ISP-Versailles Trooper Assists In 17-Mile Vehicle Pursuit

A Louisville man was arrested on numerous charges following the pursuit.

Photo by Indiana State Police.

(Seymour, Ind.) - Officers from multiple Indiana State Police agencies assisted in a 17-mile vehicle pursuit on Wednesday.

Among the troopers involved in the chase was ISP-Versailles Sergeant Stephen Wheeles. The incident began around 4:30 p.m. on Interstate 65 in Jackson and Bartholomew counties.

Wheeles observed a black 2019 Volkswagon Jetta traveling northbound on I-65 near Seymour. According to a news release, the vehicle was traveling in excess of the speed limit and without registration plates displayed.

When Wheeles attempted to conduct a traffic stop on the vehicle, the driver, Derek Smith, 29, of Louisville, fled into Bartholomew County.

Smith’s vehicle eventually collided with two Indiana State Police vehicles. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Police say Smith was found in possession of two handguns, one of which had been reported stolen out of Louisville. He was also wanted on a warrant out of Lafayette, Indiana.

Smith was transported to Columbus Regional Hospital in Columbus for evaluation before being transported to Jackson County Jail. He is charged with Resisting Law Enforcement in a Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property, Reckless Driving, and Possession of a Handgun without a Permit.

Derek Smith. Photo via Indiana State Police.