STATESVILLE, NC — An early morning police chase came to an end after officers say the suspect lost control and crashed his vehicle.
Statesville Police say they were trying to pull over 36-year-old Matthew Budney around 4:40am on Taylorsville Road near I-40 when he took off. Police say the stop was initially related to a “vehicle equipment violation” on his Chevrolet Trailblazer.
Budney reportedly fled onto I-40 east and exited onto Wilkesboro Highway, where police say he let two passengers out of the SUV. An officer remained with the passengers, police say, as Budney continued onto N. Center Street.
While going through the intersection of Water Street, police say Budney nearly collided with another vehicle and lost control. Budney reportedly fishtailed, hit a flowerbed and ran into the driveway of Risto’s Place and Twisted Oak before striking a low brick wall and flipping over.
Budney only suffered minor injuries and refused EMS treatment, police say.
Police say they located a bag of methamphetamine inside Budney’s vehicle.
Budney is charged with Felony Speed to Elude Arrest, Felony Possession of Methamphetamine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Police say he was also issued several citations for traffic violations, vehicle equipment violations and driving while license revoked.
The two passengers were not charged and released on scene.
