Police chase in Houston County ends in crash, dead deer

Authorities say the chase started with a traffic stop for a suspended license and ended with a PIT maneuver and an overturned car.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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A car chase in Houston County, Georgia that began with a traffic stop for a suspended license ended with a PIT maneuver, an overturned car, and a dead deer. The chase started when the driver, Eric York, a 39-year-old man from Macon, fled from deputies after they found he had a suspended license. During the chase, York hit a deer but did not stop. The chase ended when deputies executed a PIT maneuver on York, causing his car to overturn.

Why it matters

Police chases can be dangerous for both officers and the public, often leading to property damage and potential injuries. This incident highlights the risks involved when drivers flee from law enforcement and the need for careful pursuit tactics to minimize harm.

The details

According to Major Clay Chambers of the Houston County Sheriff's Office, deputies initially stopped Eric York, 39, of Macon, for driving with a suspended license. York then fled from the traffic stop, leading to a car chase. During the chase, York hit a deer, but continued driving. The chase ended when sheriff's deputies performed a PIT maneuver on York's vehicle on Moody Road, causing his car to overturn. Charges against York are still pending.

  • The traffic stop occurred on February 19, 2026.
  • The car chase and PIT maneuver took place on the same day, February 19, 2026.

The players

Eric York

A 39-year-old man from Macon, Georgia who fled from a traffic stop and led police on a chase that ended in a crash.

Major Clay Chambers

A sheriff's major with the Houston County Sheriff's Office who provided details about the incident.

Sheriff Matt Moulton

The sheriff of Houston County, Georgia who commented on the incident.

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What they’re saying

“Charges against York are still pending, according to Chambers.”

— Major Clay Chambers, Sheriff's Major (13wmaz.com)

What’s next

The judge will determine the charges against Eric York at a future court hearing.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the risks and consequences of fleeing from law enforcement, which can endanger both officers and the public. It serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and compliance with traffic laws.