Madison Police Arrest Subject For Auto Theft After High Speed Chase

Almost cause a collision at Clifty and Michigan

Sunday evening just before 5, central dispatch advised officers with the Madison Police Department that a tan Ford Expedition was just stolen from the West Street/Second Street area with a unknown direction of travel.

The vehicle was spotted northbound on Michigan Road by a MPD officer but after turning to follow lost the vehicle. If was located again on Hillcrest Drive and driver accelerated again onto Michigan Road Northbound.

The driver did not slow down and passed stopped vehicles in the oncoming lane. At the intersection of Clifty Drive and Michigan Road the driver ran the red light and just avoided a collision with another vehicle.

The driver attempted to turn onto Taft Drive but was unable to navigate the turn at the high rate of speed and jumped the curb and went through the grass.

The driver exited the vehicle and ran. After a foot pursuit the male subject fell to the ground and began saying he was sorry.

The subject was identified as 36 year old John Mefford. 

The female passenger was interviewed at the scene and released.

Mefford charged with preliminary charges of auto theft, resisting law enforcement and reckless driving.