A routine driver’s license checkpoint on Highway 488 escalated into a high-speed chase Sunday evening, March 9, leading to the arrests of two individuals with outstanding warrants.
According to authorities, Brianna Kennedy and Willie “Buckshot” Griffin attempted to evade Leake County deputies after Kennedy, the driver, abruptly turned into a driveway near the checkpoint before fleeing at speeds over 100 mph.
The pursuit ended when their vehicle swerved into the lawn of a residence near Wright Rd. then crashed into a tree on the property.
According to authorities, the doors of the vehicle would not open so they broke a window. Griffin, who had moved to the driver’s seat was removed from the vehicle and taken into custody.
Kennedy was found unresponsive and was transported by ambulance to the hospital then to the Leake County Correctional Facility after being medically cleared.
A search of the vehicle uncovered drugs and paraphernalia, including glass pipes with a crystal-like substance, a syringe, a bag with a crystal-like substance, and marijuana.
Willie “Buckshot” Griffin was charged with: felony fleeing, reckless driving, no insurance, driving while license suspended, seatbelt violation, and malicious mischief.
Brianna Kennedy was charged with: Possession of marijuana in a motor vehicle, controlled substance: possession of drug paraphernalia, DUI 1st, felony fleeing, improper lane use, failure to yield from private road, no proof of liability insurance, reckless driving, and seatbelt violation.
Authorities also confirmed both are convicted felons wanted by other agencies, resulting in additional holds being placed on them.
