Nearly 40 Pounds of Drugs Seized After Indianapolis Traffic Stop Chase

Two suspects arrested on preliminary charges after high-speed pursuit and search warrant

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Indianapolis police seized nearly 40 pounds of drugs after a traffic stop led to a high-speed chase and the arrest of two suspects. The incident began when detectives with IMPD's violent crimes task force attempted to pull over a vehicle for suspected narcotics activity and a traffic infraction. The driver, 38-year-old Damon Rowie Jr., initially stopped but then sped off, nearly striking an officer. This led to a chase that ended when police used a PIT maneuver to stop the vehicle. Rowie was arrested, and a search warrant was later executed at a connected home, leading to the arrest of 58-year-old Anthony Anderson.

Why it matters

The seizure of nearly 40 pounds of drugs, likely including the deadly opioid fentanyl, is a significant bust that will disrupt the local drug trade and potentially save lives in the Indianapolis community. The incident also highlights the dangers officers face when pursuing fleeing suspects, as Rowie allegedly rammed a police car during the chase.

The details

According to IMPD, detectives attempted to pull over Rowie's vehicle near Burdsal Parkway and Rader Street after observing suspected drug activity and a traffic violation. Rowie initially stopped, but then sped off, nearly striking an officer. This led to a chase, during which a large bag of white powder was thrown from Rowie's vehicle and recovered by police. Officers used a PIT maneuver to stop the car, but Rowie then allegedly rammed at least one police vehicle. Rowie was arrested, and a subsequent search warrant at a connected home led to the arrest of Anderson.

  • The incident began just after 11:30 a.m. on Thursday, February 27, 2026.
  • Rowie was arrested following the chase and PIT maneuver.
  • The search warrant at the connected home led to Anderson's arrest.

The players

Damon Rowie Jr.

A 38-year-old suspect who fled from police during the traffic stop, leading to a high-speed chase.

Anthony Anderson

A 58-year-old suspect who was arrested at a home connected to the investigation following the execution of a search warrant.

IMPD

The Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, whose violent crimes task force conducted the initial traffic stop and subsequent investigation.

Tanya Terry

The chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department.

Marion County Prosecutor's Office

The office that will make the final charging decisions related to this case.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“This case highlights both the danger fentanyl poses to our community and the risk our officers face when violent offenders choose to flee.”

— Tanya Terry, IMPD Chief (fox59.com)

What’s next

The Marion County Prosecutor's Office will make the final charging decisions related to this case.

The takeaway

This drug bust demonstrates the ongoing efforts of Indianapolis law enforcement to combat the opioid crisis and the risks officers face when pursuing suspects. The seizure of nearly 40 pounds of drugs, likely including fentanyl, will disrupt the local drug trade and potentially save lives in the community.