Indiana Man Arrested After High-Speed Chase in Stolen Vehicle

Suspect led authorities on pursuit down Interstate-70 before crashing and being ejected from the vehicle

Published on Feb. 26, 2026

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An Indianapolis man named Sawnen Wah was arrested after leading police on a high-speed chase down Interstate-70 in a stolen vehicle. The pursuit reached speeds of up to 120 mph and involved the suspect striking a tire deflation device, injuring an officer, before the vehicle eventually crashed and overturned, ejecting the driver.

Why it matters

Vehicle thefts and high-speed pursuits pose serious risks to public safety, and this incident highlights the dangers that can arise when suspects flee from law enforcement. The use of tire deflation devices and the suspect's alleged actions of steering towards an officer also raise concerns about the escalating tactics employed during chases.

The details

According to the probable cause statement, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper attempted to pull over Wah's stolen vehicle on eastbound I-70. Wah allegedly sped away, reaching speeds around 120 mph. Officers set up a tire deflation device, but Wah steered towards the officer operating it, causing them to flee and the device to become entangled with the vehicle. Even after both driver's side tires were deflated, Wah continued the chase through multiple counties before the vehicle crashed, overturned, and ejected him.

  • The pursuit began on Tuesday, February 24th.
  • The vehicle struck a tire deflation device at Mile Marker 36.
  • The chase continued through Saline County and into Cooper County, where the vehicle struck another device at Mile Marker 90.

The players

Sawnen Wah

A 32-year-old Indianapolis man who was arrested after leading police on a high-speed chase in a stolen vehicle.

Missouri State Highway Patrol

The law enforcement agency that initially attempted to pull over Wah's stolen vehicle.

Odessa Police Department

The department that set up a tire deflation device that Wah allegedly steered towards, injuring an officer.

Higginsville Police Department

The department that deployed another tire deflation device that eventually caused Wah's vehicle to lose control and crash.

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What they’re saying

“We must hold suspects accountable for their actions and the danger they pose to our communities during high-speed pursuits.”

— Chief Michael Johnson, Odessa Police Department (local news source)

What’s next

Wah is currently in custody and faces charges of assault, aggravated fleeing, and tampering with a stolen vehicle. A court date has not yet been set.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the serious risks and consequences associated with vehicle thefts and high-speed police chases. It serves as a reminder of the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies to apprehend suspects and protect public safety.