Drunk driver leads police on chase; one trooper’s car destroyed

A 19-year-old Birdseye man was arrested after he led police on a high-speed pursuit through Dubois County Sunday.

According to authorities, Dubois County Sheriff’s Deputy and an Indiana State Trooper were investigating an incident on Fourth and Main streets in Dubois when they heard a vehicle travelling at a high rate of speed while squalling its tires. The white 2002 Chevrolet pickup then traveled southbound towards the Fourth and Main Street intersection and deputies attempted to make contact with the driver. The driver accelerated through the intersection, almost striking one of the officers, and took off at a high rate of speed.

Police gave chase.

During the pursuit, a trooper ran  off the road and struck a tree totaling the police unit.

Police identified the suspect as Clayton L. Kern of 8883 East 175S, Birdseye, and he was arrested later at his residence.

Kern’s blood alcohol content was .16 percent. He was charged with Level 6 felony counts of resisting law enforcement with a vehicle and criminal recklessness as well as misdemeanor counts of criminal mischief, operating while intoxicated, minor consuming. He was also cited for disregarding a stop sign.

Kern was booked into the Dubois County Security Center.