Authorities in North Port are on the hunt for a 23-year-old man named Debahj Grant after an altercation with local law enforcement. During a routine traffic stop on Monday evening, Grant reportedly put his vehicle into reverse and struck an officer, pinning him "between the door jam" before fleeing the scene. Despite this, the involved officer was not injured. Following the incident, Grant's vehicle was found abandoned about half a mile from where the encounter took place, at the intersection of Napoleon Road and Amnesty Dr, as per FOX 13 News.
After the vehicle was located, North Port Police deployed an array of search tactics, including K-9 units and a drone team, to locate Grant. The North Port Police's effort to find the suspect extended well into the night on Monday, yet Grant remains at large. According to FOX 4, Grant stands 6 feet tall, weighs around 155 pounds, has brown hair and eyes, and was last seen wearing glasses.
While details of the initial traffic stop have not been fully disclosed, the encounter took place on Price Boulevard near Purdue Street. North Port Police are urging anyone with information regarding Debahj Grant's whereabouts to come forward. In statements shared by NBC-2, the police have emphasized that, though the officer was struck, he is "OK," and there appears to be no major injury as a result of the event.
The search for Grant continues with a "heavy presence" in the area where his vehicle was found, as noted by NBC-2. The North Port Police Department has yet to disclose additional information but has indicated that more details will be forthcoming. The North Port community is advised to stay alert and report any potential leads to the authorities.
