ARDEN HILLS, Minn. — A high-speed pursuit that began in Washington County early Saturday morning ended dramatically in Ramsey County after a fleeing pickup struck Stop Sticks, shed sparks, and finally crashed into a ditch.

The chase began shortly after midnight when a 32-year-old Brooklyn Center man failed to stop for police near the Hugo/Forest Lake border. The suspect sped southbound on Interstate 35E in a 2008 Chevrolet Silverado, reaching speeds over 100 mph, according to the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office.

Deputies joined the pursuit while others staged ahead to deploy Stop Sticks. At County Road J, Deputy Winkel successfully threw the tire-deflating device, flattening both front tires of the pickup. Despite the damage and visible sparks, the driver continued until losing control near I-694 and Snelling Avenue. The truck hit a guardrail and rolled to a stop.

The driver was arrested for fleeing police and may face additional charges. A 27-year-old passenger from North Branch was also taken into custody for outstanding Ramsey County warrants. During the pursuit, deputies recovered a handgun from the freeway near Highway 96, prompting further investigation.

Both suspects were booked into the Washington County jail.

Source: Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office