Man charged with felony fleeing after high-speed chase in Prentiss County

Prentiss County deputies pursued a vehicle during a high-speed chase on July 15, 2026, authorities said. Deputies Ethan Hester and Hunter Arnold followed a dark-colored Nissan Altima traveling southbound on Highway 145, which refused to stop for blue lights and sirens.

The driver passed multiple vehicles in no-passing zones and continued onto several county roads at high speeds. The pursuit ended when deputies located the vehicle on County Road 5012, where they found a black Altima showing signs of recent use.

Contact was made with Jase Austin Bates, 22, of Booneville. He initially denied involvement but was later identified after law enforcement obtained home security footage. The footage confirmed the Altima had turned onto the road with its headlights off just before deputies arrived.

After further questioning, Bates admitted to fleeing from law enforcement, stating he reached speeds over 100 mph for several miles. He was taken into custody and transported to the Prentiss County Jail, where he was charged with felony fleeing and failure to stop for law enforcement signals.

Investigator Aaron Stolz is handling the case, which will be presented to the next Prentiss County grand jury, authorities said.

Source: Original Article