Kentucky State Police Arrest Tennessee Man Following Pursuit

Bowling Green, Ky. (March 23, 2021) – On March 22, 2021 around 8:30 a.m. Trooper Jonathan Downs with KSP DESI West Interdiction Unit, observed a 2012 Nissan Altima traveling at a high rate of speed on I-65 near the 12 mile marker northbound.  Trooper Downs activated his emergency equipment and the vehicle failed to stop.

The vehicle accelerated and continued north on I-65 into Warren County.  While fleeing from law enforcement the Altima struck the side of a Ford pickup truck that was traveling north near the 22 mile marker.  A tire deflation device was utilized causing the vehicle to stop near the 42 mile marker of I-65. The operator of the vehicle was identified as 18 year-old, Joel Panhalkar of Franklin, Tn.  Panhalkar was taken into custody and lodged in the Warren County Jail.  He was charged with the following.

• Speeding 26MPH or more
• Reckless Driving
• Fleeing or Evading 1st (Motor Vehicle)
• Wanton Endangerment 1st (Police Officer)
• Criminal Mischief 1st Degree
• Possession of Marijuana

The investigation is on going and being led by Trooper Jonathan Downs with the KSP DESI West Interdiction Unit. There were no injuries sustained in the incident.

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