High-Speed Chase From Sunshine Skyway Ends in Palmetto, Then Suspect Flees Into Woods

A high-speed pursuit that began on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge on Tuesday morning ended in Palmetto after a suspect abandoned his vehicle and fled into a wooded area, prompting a large law enforcement search.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, the pursuit started when troopers observed a black SUV traveling at 112 mph on the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The driver failed to stop, leading authorities on a chase southbound on Interstate 275 into Manatee County.

The pursuit continued until approximately 9 a.m., when the driver exited the interstate at Exit 19 and entered Palmetto. Troopers performed a Precision Immobilization Technique, commonly known as a PIT maneuver, causing the SUV to spin out and come to a stop.

After the vehicle was disabled, the driver exited the SUV and ran into nearby woods near U.S. Highway 41 and 21st Street East. Authorities described the suspect as a Black male wearing a hoodie and sweatpants.

The Florida Highway Patrol, assisted by the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office and the Palmetto Police Department, launched an extensive search of the area using officers and drones.

Investigators said the SUV was rented by a woman in Sarasota County, although authorities believe the suspect was the person driving during the pursuit.

Law enforcement officials indicated they are confident they will be able to identify the driver involved in the chase. Authorities also emphasized that the incident was related to the suspect attempting to evade law enforcement and that there was no indication the individual had threatened officers or the public with violence.

The search remained active Tuesday as investigators worked to locate the suspect and determine additional details surrounding the pursuit.