A North Carolina man is behind bars after leading deputies on one of the most dangerous and extreme high-speed chases in recent memory — reaching a staggering estimated 180 miles per hour on I-795 before being apprehended. The Saturday morning pursuit shocked even veteran officers involved in the weekend enforcement operation aimed at cracking down on reckless and impaired driving.
According to the Lenoir County Sheriff’s Office, deputies with the Crash Reduction Team (CRT) attempted to pull over a motorcycle traveling at an extremely high rate of speed. Instead of stopping, the rider accelerated to 180 mph, weaving through lanes and pushing the limits of the bike.
The suspect, identified as Christopher Pennington of Kenly, fled through rural stretches of I-795, forcing officers into a tense and dangerous pursuit. As the chase neared Goldsborothe motorcycle suddenly experienced mechanical failure, came to a stop, and caught on fire.
Deputies arrested Pennington without incident and discovered a concealed firearm on him during the felony takedown. He now faces multiple charges, including:
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Felony Flee to Elude Arrest
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Reckless Driving
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Additional traffic violations
The joint operation, conducted with the Wayne and Onslow County DWI Task Forces, underscores law enforcement’s aggressive stance against dangerous behavior on North Carolina highways.
Thankfully, no injuries were reported, but officials say this incident serves as a stark reminder of the life-threatening risks involved in high-speed chases.
