A police chase involving the Roane County Sheriff’s Department ended early this morning in Rockwood with the arrest of a 19-year-old suspect. According to authorities, the incident began around 1:00 a.m. near the intersection of Delosier Lane and Highway 70 when a deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop.

The driver refused to pull over and fled toward Rockwood, leading deputies on a pursuit that eventually concluded on North Gateway Avenue. The chase ended after the suspect’s vehicle struck a curb near Evans Mortuary, causing a front wheel to break off; the disabled 2006 Hyundai then came to a stop near a local car wash, where the driver attempted to flee on foot.

Deputies quickly apprehended the suspect, identified as 19-year-old JaMichael Blair. He has been charged with evading arrest, speeding, the manufacture, delivery, and possession of marijuana, possession of a stolen firearm, and tampering with evidence. Blair was taken into custody and remains held at the Roane County Jail without bond pending further court proceedings.