Breaking News: Suspect Strikes Santaquin Police Officer with Semi-Truck Before Fleeing
Published on [Current Date]
Overview
Tragedy struck Santaquin, Utah, when a suspect fatally struck a police officer with a semi-truck before fleeing the scene. The shocking incident took place on Interstate 15, leading to a manhunt as authorities launched a search for the suspect. Find out all the crucial details of the incident and the subsequent police pursuit below.
The Incident
According to reports, the incident unfolded in the early hours of the morning on May 5. The Utah Highway Patrol’s Richfield office received a 911 call about a person spotted standing on the back of a northbound semi-truck trailer. Police and troopers swiftly responded to the scene near milepost 244 in Santaquin.
The Suspect
The driver of the semi-truck, later identified as 41-year-old Michael Aaron Jayne, was apprehended after fleeing the scene. Authorities initiated a traffic stop, but Jayne evaded capture for a short distance before driving back toward first responders in the wrong direction. Tragically, during this chaotic sequence, the Santaquin police officer was struck, resulting in their untimely death.
The Manhunt
Upon exiting the semi-truck, Jayne fled on foot but allegedly managed to steal a white Ford F-150 in Sanpete County. A massive manhunt was launched, and several southern Utah County cities were placed under a shelter-in-place order. Officials issued a description of Jayne’s whereabouts, alerting nearby residents and intensifying the search efforts.
The Pursuit and Capture
The stolen vehicle was eventually tracked down by authorities in Vernal. A subsequent high-speed pursuit ensued, lasting for several hours, until Jayne ultimately crashed the stolen car. Law enforcement promptly took him into custody, resolving the immediate threat and allowing the community to breathe a sigh of relief.
State of Mourning
Lt. Cory Slaymaker from the Spanish Fork Police Department expressed deep condolences, labeling the incident a tragedy not only for those directly involved but for the entire state of Utah. The loss of a dedicated officer leaves a lasting impact on the community they served and protected.
Interstate 15 Affected
Due to the severity of the incident, both directions of Interstate 15 had to be temporarily shut down while authorities processed and cleared the crash scene. Southbound lanes were eventually reopened after several hours, although commuters were advised to anticipate ongoing delays.
Official Statement
Utah Governor, Spencer Cox, extended his sympathies in a heartfelt public statement, conveying solidarity with the officer’s loved ones and everyone affected by the tragedy. The state comes together in grief during these difficult times.
