Beech Tree News Network

A high speed chase started in Butler County and ended in Muhlenberg County on Saturday morning.  Shortly after midnight, Butler County Sheriff’s Deputy Chris Reneer attempted to stop a red Honda in the southbound lane of the Natcher Parkway near the 34 mile marker.  The driver, Emmette Dewayne Whitehead,(DOB 12/13/67), of 211 Sawmill Road, Morgantown, refused to stop the vehicle.

Whitehead left Natcher Parkway at Exit 29 and proceeded on Highway 70, Rochester Road, with Reneer in pursuit.  Morgantown City Police officers Denny Deweese and James Embry joined the pursuit as well.  The vehicle reached speeds in excess of 90mph often on the wrong side of the road. 
The chase continued into Muhlenberg County.  Kentucky State Police from the Madisonville Post and the Muhlenberg County Sheriff’s Department prepared a road block to assist Reneer. 

KSP deployed spike strips on Hwy 70 near Browder.  Whitehead hit the spike strips and the vehicle was disabled, he then attempted to escape on foot. Whitehead was arrested and lodged in the Butler County Jail.

Whitehead was charged with wanton endangerment, 1st degree -police officer; drug paraphernalia-buy/possess-1st offense; speeding, 26mph over the limit; fleeing or evading police,1st degree (motor vehicle); operating on suspended/revoked operator's license; operating motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs .08 (aggravated circumstances), 1st; possession of controlled substance, 1st degree, 1st offense (methamphetamine); and manufacturing methamphetamine, 1st offense.  He was also indicted by the Butler County Grand Jury in March on drug charges.