A motorist wanted on aggravated-assault warrants turned a routine traffic stop into a chase through downtown Atlanta, according to authorities, tossing a gun and a satchel stuffed with pills and drug paraphernalia along the way. Police say the driver ditched a Ford Fusion belonging to the victim, took off on foot, and was caught after a brief run through the city.
Chase and capture
Georgia State Patrol troopers attempted to pull over the Ford Fusion on Feb. 25 after being advised the car was tied to a suspect wanted for aggravated assault. Troopers then worked with the Atlanta Police Department and the APD air unit to set up a perimeter. The driver bailed out of the vehicle and ran, but officers closed in and arrested the suspect after a short foot chase, as reported by WSB-TV.
Items recovered
"Officers later recovered both items," WSB-TV reported. Inside the satchel, investigators say they found two digital scales, multiple glassine bags, and one suspected MDMA pill. The bag also allegedly contained about 2.3 grams of suspected oxycodone and roughly 49.5 grams of suspected alprazolam (Xanax). Police also recovered the firearm that the suspect tossed during the pursuit, per WSB-TV.
Charges and booking
Atlanta police identified the arrestee as Zakkiyya Ardister. Authorities say Ardister is facing multiple counts, including fleeing and eluding, reckless driving and reckless conduct, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, three counts of possession with intent to distribute, possession of drug-related objects and obstruction. Police also report there were active warrants for aggravated assault, simple battery and cruelty to children in the third degree. Ardister was taken to Fulton County Jail, where local prosecutors will handle the case.
Enforcement context
The arrest comes as the Atlanta Police Department and its partner agencies have been publicly emphasizing recent enforcement efforts focused on getting guns and illegal drugs off city streets. Earlier this month, APD officials detailed results from a multi-agency "Gangs, Guns and Drugs" operation, highlighting coordinated work with state and federal partners to disrupt trafficking and violent crime. The department posted a summary of that operation on its website, according to the Atlanta Police Department.
What happens next
Authorities say the investigation remains active. Prosecutors will determine the formal charges and any bond conditions as the case moves through Fulton County court, and officials plan to release more information as filings are made and evidence is processed.
