GCM Staff Report
A vehicle stop in Foley that turned into a police chase turned into a potentially dangerous situation Saturday night when the suspect’s car wrecked into a power pole and natural gas valve.
The crash caused a gas leak and potential live electrical line hazard to the suspect, officers, first responders and bystanders who were attempting to render aid, according to Foley Polce Chief Thurston Bullock.
“Multiple law enforcement agencies, fire resources and utilities responders arrived on scene, and after securing the power and gas lines, the driver of the suspect vehicle was extricated with minimal injuries,” Bullock said.
The driver, 33-year-old Joseph Lineberry, of Fairhope, had initiated a pursuit when he did not stop when officers attempted to make a reckless driver traffic stop. Just before midnight on July 12. His vehicle exited the roadway and struck the pole and gas valve.
Bullock said he was transported to Baldwin Health for a medical clearance then arrested on charges of DUI and felony eluding law enforcement officers. He also is reportedly wanted out of other agencies for a “variety of misdemeanors, which include attempted to elude LEO, assault third degree and domestic violence third degree, among others.”
Bollock thanked partner agencies Gulf Shores Police Department, Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office, Foley Fire Department, Medstar, Baldwin EMC and Riviera Utilities in the incident’s efforts.
“Although we appreciate the heroic actions of citizens and sometimes off-duty first responders, we ask that no one, especially while in plain clothes, go rushing into unknown situations such as this to render aid when the police have it surrounded or are already on scene,” he said. “There may be potential threats that are unknown or unseen to the public, and we never want a case of mistaken identity. Please evaluate every scenario cautiously and listen to the officers that are on scene if you feel a need to intervene.”