In Warren, Memorial Day was marked by high-speed pursuits, one of which resulted in a home's porch being crashed into after a man attempted to flee a traffic stop. Xavier Powell, 25, now faces multiple felony charges after initially being stopped by police for a window tint and other violations, as reported by clickondetroit. Charged with third-degree fleeing and eluding, as well as resisting and obstructing police, Powell's flight also raised concerns over the region's police pursuit policy.
Powell's encounter with law enforcement began around 9 Mile Road and Masch Avenue when an officer, operating a fully marked patrol car, identified multiple violations that led to an attempted traffic stop. According to FOX 2 Detroit, the response by Powell was to accelerate away onto Audrey Street, leaving behind a trail of collision wreckage that included several parked vehicles before hitting a residence.
The chase didn't last long, ending within a minute near Toepfer Road and Audrey Avenue, as Powell's vehicle lost control and came to an abrupt halt. Though he tried to escape on foot, Powell was quickly apprehended by the police and taken into custody. An empty alcohol bottle in the crashed vehicle suggested intoxication, leading Powell to be transported for a blood draw. FOX 2 Detroit also noted that Powell has a significant criminal history, which includes previous driving and controlled substance offenses.
Residents affected by the chaos have called into question the Warren Police Department's approach to pursuits. Rick James, whose Jeep was totaled in the crash, now walks to work; the significant financial and personal loss attached to an individual whose vehicle became collateral in the chase. "It was a loud crash — loud, big bang," James told WXYZ, capturing the immediate aftermath before pointing out the dangers presented by such pursuits. "Thank goodness nobody got hurt. That's my most blessing. I didn't have to witness a child or a mother or father or grandmother getting killed," he added, highlighting the potential for greater tragedy.
Authorities defend the chase policy, arguing that it's an issue of compliance not police conduct. Warren Police Commissioner Eric Hawkins emphasized the importance of obeying lawful orders at a press conference. "The message has to be clearly sent that this is not a police problem; this is a people problem," Hawkins stated, as reported by WXYZ. Despite the controversy, the Warren Police Department notes that chases are usually policy-adherent, declined in number, and are consistently under supervisory control. Amidst this debate, Powell has entered a not-guilty plea and awaits the result of further court proceedings.
