WINCHESTER, VA — A Frederick County man is facing 15 criminal charges, including abduction and identity theft, following a high-speed police chase that spanned multiple jurisdictions on Friday.
Matthew Newell Wright, 31, of Monticello Square, was charged in both Winchester and Frederick County General District Courts. Charges include:
Two felony counts of abduction and eluding law enforcement,
Misdemeanor counts of driving with a suspended license,
Providing false ID to police,
Identity theft, and
Several traffic violations.
According to the criminal complaint, Wright fled a traffic stop on Berryville Pike (VA-7) and led authorities on a pursuit reaching speeds of 120 mph on Interstate 81.
The chase continued into Winchester, where Wright exited the interstate at mile marker 313B and struck an embankment. Despite the crash, he continued driving until stopping at Jubal Early Drive and Pleasant Valley Road, where he was arrested.
Authorities learned Wright’s driver’s license was suspended, and he had provided false identification during the initial stop. A female passenger told police she begged Wright not to flee.
Wright is currently held without bond at the Northwestern Regional Adult Detention Center. His next court hearings are scheduled for July 23 in Winchester and September 23 in Frederick County.
Court records show Wright has no previous criminal history.
