Police Helicopter Scrambles to Track Driver Who Fled After Ryde Chase
The National Police Service Helicopter from Bournemouth was scrambled this Sunday morning (July 15) after a driver gave police the slip in Ryde. Officers from the Isle of Wight Armed Roads Policing unit tried to stop a silver Hyundai, but the driver refused to halt, sparking a gritty pursuit through Ryde’s backstreets.
High-Speed Chase Ends in Ditch and Dash
The chase kicked off around 10.20am on Preston Close and saw the suspect race along Ashey Lane, Smallbrook Lane, and Great Preston Road. When officers finally caught up near Sutton Close, the driver bailed out and ditched the car, taking off across nearby grassland on foot.
Massive Police Manhunt Underway Above Oakfield
With the driver on the run, Hampshire Constabulary’s helicopters and the Isle of Wight Police dog unit joined the hunt. The chopper is now circling the Oakfield estates in Ryde, casting high above to spot the elusive fugitive.
An Isle of Wight Police spokesperson confirmed: “Officers pursued the man after he failed to stop when pulled over at Preston Close. The driver abandoned his vehicle at Sutton Close and fled on foot. The helicopter and dog unit are currently searching the area.”
The police remain desperate to catch the wanted motorist, who risked public safety by failing to stop and then running from the law.
