Prentiss County man charged after police chase on July 15, 2026

Deputies with the Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department pursued a dark-colored Nissan Altima on July 15, 2026, after it refused to stop for blue lights and sirens. The vehicle traveled southbound on Highway 145, passing multiple cars in no-passing zones and continuing onto several county roads at high speeds, authorities said.

The pursuit led deputies to 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 deputies obtained home security footage from a nearby residence confirming the vehicle had turned onto the road with its headlights off shortly before law enforcement arrived.

After further questioning, Bates admitted to fleeing from deputies, stating he reached speeds over 100 mph for several miles. He was taken into custody and transported to the Prentiss County Jail. Bates faces a felony charge of failure to stop a motor vehicle when an officer signals, according to authorities.

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

Source: Original Article