Felony Suspect Apprehended After High-Speed Chase
In a dramatic turn of events, a high-speed police pursuit ended in a collision involving a suspect wanted on felony charges. The incident unfolded in North Birmingham, culminating in a crash at the intersection of 18th Street North and 15th Avenue North.
Injured Federal Official Identified
The collision resulted in injuries to two individuals, one of whom was identified as Gayle Manchin, the federal co-chair of the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC). Accompanying her was the driver, identified as Land. Both were promptly attended to by medical personnel and transported to the UAB Gardendale Hospital.
Suspect Apprehended Without Incident
Law enforcement authorities successfully apprehended the suspect involved in the pursuit. The Homewood Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division is currently investigating the case and is in the process of obtaining multiple felony warrants against the suspect. The suspect is presently being held at the Homewood City Jail pending the issuance of arrest warrants.
Federal Official’s Purpose in Alabama
Gayle Manchin had traveled to Alabama to attend an Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) event. The ARC, an economic development partnership entity of the federal government and 13 state governments, focuses on 423 counties across the Appalachian Region. Land, the driver, served as an ARC congressional liaison.
Senator Manchin’s Presidential Bid Teased
While the incident involving Gayle Manchin and Land unfolded, Senator Manchin has been stirring political discussions with hints of a potential third-party presidential bid. Speaking to reporters, he mentioned that Super Tuesday on March 5 would likely confirm the direction of the race and that people are seeking alternative options. Senator Manchin’s decision not to seek re-election for his Senate seat last year has fueled speculation about his future political aspirations.
“Americans Together”: A Unifying Campaign
Senator Manchin kickstarted a nationwide campaign called “Americans Together” with the aim of uniting moderate voters across the country. The campaign seeks to bridge the divide between the extremes of the political spectrum, offering an alternative path for those dissatisfied with the current political climate.
This report includes contributions from Fox News Digital’s Greg Norman, Jamie Joseph, and Tyler Olson.
