By Brian Livingston / blivingston@themeridianstar.com
CNHI
MERIDIAN — Detectives with the Meridian Police Department are investigating two incidents that reportedly occurred Sunday, one of which was an alleged armed robbery and the other a shooting.
MPD Capt. James Sharpe, commander of the MPD's Criminal Investigation Division, said at about 4:30 a.m. Sunday several suspects allegedly committed an armed robbery at a Meridian restaurant on Roebuck Drive. Sharpe said a description of the suspects and the vehicle they fled the scene in was issued to all patrol officers. The vehicle was found by patrol units minutes later. Several individuals were taken into custody, interviewed and then released. Sharpe said no charges have been filed as yet but the investigation continues.
No one was injured during the reported robbery and there was no information available as to the type of weapon allegedly used.
At about 1:40 p.m. Sunday a report of shots being fired in the 4500 block of 11th Street was taken. When patrol officers arrived they found a truck had apparently been hit by at least one bullet. A description of the suspect vehicle was issued. MPD patrol units spotted the vehicle in the western part of Meridian about 15 minutes later and a high speed pursuit ensued.
Sharpe said the suspect led units out Highway 80 West where speeds reached dangerous levels on the narrow, pock-marked roadway. Patrol units with the Lauderdale County Sheriff's Department, said Sharpe, also joined in the chase. Deputies were able to secure physical evidence that Sharpe said was thrown from a window of the suspect's vehicle during the chase.
MPD patrol units were able to get the vehicle stopped at the Meehan exit to Interstate 20 a few minutes later. Several suspects were taken into custody and questioned but Sharpe said no formal charges have been filed in this case.
No one was injured during the shooting or the car chase.
