Vehicle pursuit leads to arrest in Holmes County

On September 20, deputies from the Holmes County Sheriff’s Office (HCSO) responded to a physical disturbance on Hwy 79, where shots had been fired. Before deputies arrived, dispatch informed them that the suspect, later identified as Ken Simmons, had fled the scene in a yellow Dodge Challenger heading south on Hwy 79.

Deputies intercepted the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle refused to stop and fled at high speeds, exceeding 100 mph. The pursuit continued as the vehicle turned west onto Hwy 160, crossed over onto Monroe Paul Rd, then entered a field before returning to Hwy 177 and heading north. Simmons then turned onto Hwy 2 East, reaching speeds of 130 mph.

As the pursuit neared Esto, the vehicle began to slow and eventually came to a stop after running out of gas. Simmons fled on foot, but deputies were able to apprehended him.

A search of the vehicle uncovered a firearm and a bag of marijuana. Simmons now faces multiple charges, including aggravated assault, fleeing and attempting to elude, battery, reckless discharge of a firearm, reckless driving, and improper display of a firearm.

The female involved in the initial altercation was found walking along Hwy 79 and was transported to the hospital for medical attention.