Reckless Pursuit Ends in Dramatic Arrest: Newport Man Apprehended After High-Speed Chase

In a tense and harrowing incident, a Newport man found himself at the center of a dramatic car chase that unfolded on the streets of Oregon. The pursuit, which involved reckless driving and a refusal to comply with police orders, ultimately led to the suspect's arrest on multiple charges.

Suspect's Erratic Behavior Sparks Intense Pursuit

Trespassing Investigation Leads to High-Speed Chase

The events began to unfold on Thursday evening when Newport officers were searching for 45-year-old Benjamin Arthur Palm, who had been identified as a suspect in a trespassing investigation. Police received information that Palm was driving a black car and heading to an address near Northeast 5th and Northeast Douglas. As officers scoured the area, they spotted Palm behind the wheel of the black vehicle near Northeast Avery Street and Northeast 1st Street. Witnesses reported that Palm was driving in a reckless and erratic manner, prompting the officers to attempt a traffic stop.

Suspect Flees, Endangering Motorists

Instead of complying with the officers' orders, Palm chose to flee, initiating a high-speed chase. He turned through a parking lot, exited onto Highway 20 without stopping, and nearly collided with an oncoming car. The pursuit continued as Palm drove erratically, weaving through traffic and disregarding traffic laws. The Newport Police Department (NPD) stated that Palm's actions posed a significant threat to other motorists on the road.

Suspect Leads Police on Dangerous Neighborhood Chase

Undeterred, Palm eventually turned off Highway 101 and continued his reckless driving through a residential neighborhood, reaching high speeds. The NPD reported that the suspect's disregard for public safety was evident throughout the chase, as he endangered the lives of innocent bystanders and fellow drivers.

Standoff Ends in Dramatic Arrest

The pursuit finally came to an end near Southeast 1st Street and Southeast Coos Street, where Palm stopped his vehicle. However, he refused to comply with the officers' orders to exit the car. After several attempts to persuade him to surrender, the officers were forced to break the window and physically remove Palm from the vehicle. The dramatic arrest marked the culmination of the intense pursuit.

Suspect Faces Numerous Charges

Following the incident, Benjamin Arthur Palm was arrested and charged with several offenses, including attempt to elude, reckless driving, criminal trespassing, and parole violation. The Newport Police Department stated that the investigation into the incident is ongoing, and they are urging anyone with information to come forward and assist the authorities.

Community Concerns and Ongoing Investigation

The high-speed chase and the suspect's disregard for public safety have raised concerns within the local community. Residents are relieved that the situation was ultimately resolved without any reported injuries, but the incident has underscored the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and the public. The Newport Police Department has assured the community that they are committed to thoroughly investigating the matter and ensuring the safety of all citizens.