A domestic-violence call in Spotsylvania County escalated into a chaotic police chase that ended with a suspect allegedly ramming two patrol cars near the Spotsylvania Towne Centre, authorities said.
Deputies say the driver, identified as Keith Knowles Jr., now faces a slate of charges, including felony eluding, assault on law enforcement and obstruction of justice.
According to WJLA, the incident began in the 4900 block of Plank Road after a reported domestic-violence call. Deputies said they spotted Knowles behind the wheel with a female passenger and a dog in the vehicle. When officers approached, he allegedly took off.
Deputies tried to pull the car over, but the driver reportedly refused to stop. Investigators say Knowles then deliberately slammed into a cruiser on Plank Road near the Spotsylvania Towne Centre, then hit a second police vehicle, which finally ended the pursuit. Deputies took Knowles into custody at the scene. The woman and the dog in the car were not hurt, officials said.
Charges and Potential Penalties
Knowles was booked on allegations of felony eluding, assaulting a law-enforcement officer and obstructing justice.
Under Virginia law, failing to stop for an officer's signal can be charged as a misdemeanor or as a felony if the driver "interferes with or endangers" others, under Code § 46.2-817. Assault on a law-enforcement officer can be prosecuted as a felony in certain circumstances, as outlined in Code § 18.2-57. Obstruction of justice is addressed in § 18.2-460.
What Happens Next
Deputies cuffed Knowles at the scene and took him into custody. Officials did not immediately release details about a booking photo or a court date, as reported by WJLA.
Spotsylvania County's Criminal Department notes that felony cases are handled through the county Circuit Court, where case status and hearing dates are posted online. The Commonwealth’s Attorney will review the allegations and determine formal charges and the next steps in prosecution.
