On Tuesday, a Rockwood City officer observed a man he knew to have warrants driving on Roane State Highway, heading east.

When the officer attempted a traffic stop, the driver accelerated to speeds of 90 mph and failed to maintain his lane of travel. The driver traveled on the highway until he merged onto Interstate 40 at mile marker 352 and headed eastbound. After about two miles, another officer pulled beside the vehicle when the driver swerved toward the officer believed to be in an attempt to strike his patrol unit.

The driver exited the interstate at Gallaher Road and headed southbound where he turned on Jennings Road, which is a dead end. The driver attempted to drive through a yard where he almost hit a homeowner. The officers used a PIT maneuver where they were able to stop the driver and remove him from the vehicle.

The driver was identified as 47-year-old Elmer Harold Steelman, Jr. In plain view inside the truck was a black bag with several needles sticking out. After a search of the vehicle, a total of 15 needles, a set of digital scales, drug residue, .42 grams of what is believed to be methamphetamine, and a black substance believed to be heroin were located. Mr. Steelman also told officers that during the pursuit, he had swallowed some pills.

Mr. Steelman was transferred to Roane Medical Center until he was medically released and transported to Roane County Jail. He was booked on multiple charges with a bond totaling $58,250.