Memphis became the backdrop for a dramatic police chase Wednesday afternoon when a man, now identified as Trae Payne, rammed into multiple police cars while trying to escape. Payne, who was wanted for a string of auto thefts and break-ins, initiated the chaos around 4:30 p.m. on Macon Road, according to a report by Action News 5.
The calamity unfolded as Memphis Police Department officers, seeking the suspect for his alleged involvement in multiple thefts and burglaries, located Payne's vehicle at a local gas station on Macon Road. As they activated their lights and sirens, Payne reportedly put his truck in reverse and struck an MPD cruiser, and then, switching to drive, collided with another occupied police vehicle, triggering a high-speed pursuit that ended at the intersection of Chelsea Avenue and Warford Street, where Payne abandoned his vehicle while it was still moving, said FOX13 Memphis.
After his initial escape attempt, Payne continued to flee on foot, trying to enter another black truck that was momentarily stopped at a light, but police managed to take him into custody before he could gain access. Following these events, Payne was hit with two counts of assault against a first responder amongst other charges, which include evading arrest in both an automobile and on foot, reckless endangerment, and resisting official detention. WREG recounted that an officer used a patrol car to stop Payne's truck from causing further potential harm to bystanders.
As a result of his actions, Payne sustained non-critical injuries and was transported to Methodist University Hospital for treatment, this incident marks a stark reminder of the perils law enforcement officers face and the unforeseen dangers that can occur in the middle of a bustling city's daily rhythm.
