Michigan man eludes trooper, crashes in Hammond

HAMMOND, Ind. (WISH) — An attempted traffic stop and high-speed chase in Northern Indiana on Wednesday led to a single-car crash and drug bust in Hammond, according to Indiana State Police.

Early Wednesday morning, a state trooper observed Shivam Vikrant Patel, 26, of Ypsilanti, Michigan traveling eastbound on I-90 at a rate of 112 mph – 42 mph faster than the posted speed limit.

As police attempted to make a traffic stop on the vehicle, Patel turned off his vehicle’s headlights and attempted to elude the officer. A pursuit of the vehicle ensued.

After Patel exited I-90 onto Cline Avenue, the officer lost sight of the vehicle and terminated the pursuit.

Approximately 10 minutes after the incident, Hammond Police observed Patel traveling at a high rate of speed. As authorities initiated a traffic stop, Patel crashed into a utility pole at the intersection of 129th Street and Calumet Avenue.

Patel proceeded to exit his vehicle, carrying a visible loaded handgun in his waistband.

Officers placed Patel under arrest without further incident.

A second handgun was located on the driver along with a controlled substance. Authorities later found a third handgun in Patel’s vehicle, as well as additional controlled substances.

Patel was transported to Lake County Jail and is facing preliminary charges of dealing cocaine, possession of a firearm with altered serial number, resisting law enforcement, possession of a controlled substance enhancement and reckless driving.