Photo: John Leroy Lewis
A local fugitive is in custody at Baxter Regional Medical Center after his motorcycle crashed into a law enforcement vehicle. According to Baxter County Sheriff John Montgomery, 54-year-old John Leroy Lewis of Jordan was arrested Friday after what began as a response to a suspicious person in the Jordan area.
Two deputies responded to the complaint on Edgehill Lane, and one observed a male he recognized to be Lewis on a motorcycle. Lewis reportedly has outstanding warrants for failure to appear in court. The deputy attempted to make contact with Lewis, but he allegedly sped away on his motorcycle in the direction of the patrol vehicle, with the other deputy still inside. Lewis’ motorcycle ran into the front of the vehicle, causing the accident.
Photos: Courtesy Baxter County Sheriff’s Office
Lewis was transported by ambulance to Baxter Regional with incapacitating injuries. The deputy in the patrol unit was not injured, and the vehicle remains operational. The crash was worked by the Arkansas State Police.
Lewis was searched after being apprehended, and two syringes used to inject methamphetamine were reportedly located. A review of his criminal history also revealed he is listed as a habitual offender with multiple felony convictions.
In addition to the failure to appear warrants, Lewis is being charged with felony counts of fleeing by vehicle and possession of drug paraphernalia. Following his release from the hospital, he’ll be escorted to the Baxter County Detention Center and later appear in Baxter County Circuit Court.
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