Two Arrested After 90 MPH Chase Leads to Major Meth, Fentanyl Bust in DeFuniak Springs

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A high-speed chase on U.S. Highway 90 outside DeFuniak Springs, Florida ended in a major drug bust, with authorities arresting two individuals and seizing over 116 grams of methamphetamine, nearly 4 grams of fentanyl, and a loaded firearm from their wrecked vehicle.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement in the Florida Panhandle to disrupt the supply of dangerous drugs like meth and fentanyl in the region. The sizable quantities of narcotics recovered indicate the suspects may have been part of a larger distribution operation.

The details

The incident began around 5 a.m. when a Walton County deputy attempted to pull over a black Volkswagen for a broken taillight. Instead of stopping, the driver allegedly sped away, reaching speeds up to 90 mph before the car spun out and crashed. Both occupants, 35-year-old Fabian Joseph Rutherford and 19-year-old Jada Jay Urich, tried to flee on foot but were quickly apprehended by deputies. A search of the vehicle uncovered 116.2 grams of methamphetamine, 3.9 grams of fentanyl, a loaded handgun, prescription drugs, and packaging materials. Additional meth was later found hidden on Urich's person after the pair was booked into the Walton County Jail.

• The incident occurred around 5 a.m. on Thursday, March 21, 2026.
• Rutherford and Urich were arrested at the scene and booked into the Walton County Jail.

What’s next

Rutherford and Urich are expected to make their first court appearances to address bond and the specific charges they will face. The Walton County Sheriff's Office is also asking the public to come forward with any information about this case or other suspected drug activity in the area.