Kearney Police Assist in Apprehending Fugitive

A wanted fugitive who assaulted a police officer in Excelsior Springs on Thursday, October 1, ended up leading officers on a police pursuit through Kearney.

The fugitive was taken into custody with the assistance of Kearney’s K-9, Krash

According to the Kearney Police Department, after the officer was assaulted, the fugitive fled and Excelsior Springs police began a pursuit. The Excelsior Springs Police Department requested assistance from other law enforcement agencies, including the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, Liberty Police Department, Missouri State Highway Patrol, and the Kearney Police Department.

The pursuit went through Kearney neighborhoods and several witnesses observed the chase, including Kearney Mayor Randy Pogue.

“I witnessed Kearney Officers getting ahead of the chase [by] removing pedestrians and kids from the area,” said Pogue. “Within seconds of doing so, the suspect blew through the neighborhood at excessive speed and driving dangerously.”

Kearney Police Officers were able to deploy spike strips to deflate the suspect vehicle’s tires. The pursuit continued through Kearney and ended in Liberty. With the assistance of Kearney’s K-9, Krash, officers were able to take the fugitive into custody without further incident.

Mayor Pogue gave high praise to the professionalism of Kearney Police. “I have no doubt the actions of Sgt. Kantola, Cpl. Garton, and Officer Parker removing pedestrians and blocking intersections saved lives tonight,” said Pogue. “To me, it was apparent this individual didn’t care and wasn’t going to stop. Best possible end result. Suspect is in custody and the good guys and residents are safe.”

KPGZ News – Brian Watts contributed to this story