A California man was taken into custody Sunday night after his 18-wheeler was pursued on I-20 by several law enforcement agencies.
George Mashi, 50, of Fresno, Calif., was arrested after a chase of about 15 miles across Lincoln Parish.
Ruston Police responded to a report of a reckless 18-wheeler traveling eastbound on Interstate 20 near Tarbutton Road (exit 83) at about 8:55 p.m. The report indicated the vehicle had no lights activated and was swerving across the roadway.
An officer located the suspect vehicle on Interstate 20 near the Farmerville Highway interchange (exit 86), clocking it at approximately 44 miles per hour in the left lane. The driver was observed operating without lights, splitting both lanes of travel, and creating unsafe driving conditions for other motorists.
The officer activated his emergency lights and siren in an attempt to make a traffic stop; however, the driver failed to comply and continued eastbound.
Deputies with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office then joined the pursuit near mile marker 89. Louisiana State Police deployed spike strips near mile marker 94, successfully disabling the vehicle. Mashi then pulled to the right shoulder.
When ordered to exit the cab, Mashi failed to comply with commands and attempted to drive off again. At that point, he struck a LPSO patrol unit.
LPSO deputies deployed a Taser to gain control of Mashi, who was taken into custody. Ruston Fire Department evaluated Mashi at the scene, and he was transported to Northern Louisiana Medical Center for clearance.
Following medical evaluation, Mashi was booked into the Lincoln Parish Detention Center for aggravated flight from an officer and no taillights.
No injuries to officers or civilians were reported during the incident.
Ruston Police released a statement thanking the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Ruston Fire Department and Northern Louisiana Medical Center staff for their assistance in this case.
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