On Tuesday September 10th at approximately 2:50 p.m. the Valdese Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop to investigate a theft that occurred at Dollar General earlier that day involving a vehicle matching the same description. Attempts were made to stop a white pickup truck on Lovelady Road near Lake Roadhiss Drive Northeast. The truck did not pull over despite using blue lights and sirens, leading to a vehicle chase. Assistance from the Burke County Sheriff’s Office was requested, which included spike strips and additional units. It was discovered that the pickup truck had been reported stolen from Maiden, North Carolina. The chase went through Rutherford College and returned toward Lovelady Road before heading Northeast toward Draughn High School. Due to safety concerns the Valdese Police Department and the Burke County Sheriff’s Office ended their pursuit. The pickup truck was later located near Oakland Avenue and Abernathy Circle where it crashed and the driver had fled on foot. The suspect was identified as James Alexander Keller of Rutherford College. After receiving reports of a man matching Keller’s description, Deputies and Valdese Officers were able to locate Keller and take him into custody. Charges include, felony flee to elude arrest with a motor vehicle, felony possession of stolen vehicle ,and misdemeanor resisting public officer.
He was given a $30,000 secured bond. His first court date is set for today, September 12th.