Late in the evening on Monday May 4th, 2020 the Parsons Police Department was involved in a vehicle pursuit. At approximately 11:45 pm Officer Christian Smith noticed a blue Kia Forte being driven by a black male known not to have a valid driver's license. This information was confirmed by dispatch and Officer Smith followed the vehicle through the parking lot of King Cash Saver, near 21st and Main St.

The driver was identified by Officer Smith as Robert Milton, 23 year of age of Parsons. The vehicle exited the parking lot onto Corning Ave. The vehicle went down the wrong lane of travel for east-bound traffic. Officer Smith activated his emergency lights to initiate the traffic stop. The vehicle accelerated and Officer Smith pursued the vehicle witnessing it turn its headlights off to avoid being caught. The pursuit went across 16th street east-bound on Corning and then turned south onto 13th street then to Southern before exiting the city limits east on Southern past 10th street. The pursuit continued to Rooks Rd then north to 25000 before turning west to Queens Blvd and back north into Neosho County. The driver and a passenger stopped the vehicle at approximately 40th and Queens and took off fleeing on foot to a tree line. Officer Smith stayed with the abandoned vehicle until back officers arrived.

The suspects were not found after the chase and the vehicle was recovered and impounded. The vehicle was bearing an illegal tag from Missouri, which was also recovered. The Kia that was impounded did not have any registered owner listed in Missouri or Kansas records.

On Tuesday May 5th Robert Milton was arrested as the suspected driver and brought to the Parsons Police Department as a part of the investigation. Charges are being sent to the County Attorney for Felony Fleeing and Attempting to Elude, Driving While Suspended, Illegal Tag, and multiple traffic infractions relating to the pursuit.

This continues to be an on-going investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

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