PONCE DE LEON, FL — Jerry Blackshear, the driver of a Toyota SUV, was arrested on January 4, 2025, after leading deputies on a high-speed pursuit that reached speeds over 115 mph. The chase began when a Holmes County deputy attempted to stop the vehicle for driving without a tag.
Blackshear fled westbound on Interstate 10, with the pursuit extending into Walton County, where Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) took over. Walton County deputies successfully deployed spike strips, causing Blackshear to exit the interstate. The chase continued as he headed north on Highway 285 and east on Highway 90, until FHP executed a PIT maneuver, forcing the vehicle onto a dead-end street.
Blackshear attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended after a brief chase. A large quantity of methamphetamine was found on his person. He now faces multiple charges in Walton County and will be extradited to Holmes County for additional charges.
Sheriff John Tate thanked FHP and Walton County deputies for their quick actions in safely resolving the situation.