Two Charged in Pike County MO Theft, High Speed Chase
Authorities in Pike County, Missouri are looking for two suspects wanted on a variety of charges, including theft and ramming a Pike County’s Sheriff’s vehicle Thursday night.
Sheriff Stephen Korte reports deputies responded to a report of a theft in progress in rural Clarksville about 9:45 p.m. Thursday.
Deputies observed two men in a pickup in a historic cemetery attempting to steal walnut trees.
A high speed chase ensued, with the pickup traveling on Highway 79 at speeds in excess of 120 miles per hour.
The pickup did ram a sheriff’s department vehicle on Pike County Road 234 before leaving the scene.
The deputy, 27 year old Roy Peters of Bowling Green, suffered minor injuries and was taken to Pike County Memorial Hospital for treatment.
As of mid-afternoon Sunday, the occupants of the pickup, identified as 45 year old Jesse Callaway of Troy and 53 year old James Merlenbach of O’Fallon, Missouri, were still at large.
Warrants were issued Friday, charging Callaway and Merlenbach with assault with special victim, leaving the scene of an accident, fleeing arrest, armed criminal action, property damage, stealing, trespassing, careless and imprudent driving and speeding.