A traffic stop led to a high speed chase Sunday south of Knoxville. At 10:25 a.m., a Knoxville officer stopped a 2005 Chevrolet Impala, driven by 43-year-old Elijah John Utterback for dark window tint in the McDonald’s parking lot. After the officer instructed the driver to drive and park next to the dumpsters instead of the drive-thru lane, the driver took off south on Highway 14 out of Knoxville. Another Knoxville officer joined the pursuit at this time.

The driver fluctuated speeds between 50 and 125 miles per hour on the highway while passing numerous vehicles in no passing zones and failing to stop at numerous stop signs.

The pursuit ended after 15.2 miles in the 2200 block of Saratoga Drive near Bussey, a dead end road. Utterback fled on foot, but a female passenger was detained. She informed officers of the driver’s identity. Dispatch informed officers that Utterback has a suspended license and numerous arrest warrants. A search of the vehicle revealed drug paraphernalia with methamphetamine residue.

Officers searched the surrounding area, but were unable to locate Utterback. At 2:39 that afternoon, dispatch informed deputies that a male matching Utterback’s description was seen in the 2200 block of Reagan Drive. Law enforcement located Utterback, and transported him to the Marion County Jail, where he admitted to his actions.

Utterback faces numerous charges, including speeding, eluding, reckless driving, unsafe passing, failure to obey traffic control device, driving under suspension, failure to provide proof of financial liability, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Total bond is set at $3,000, and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for October 12th.