IFN Staff

A Statesville man faces a felony charge and the possibility of losing his vehicle after failing to stop for a Mooresville police officer who attempted to stop him for speeding.

The Mooresville Police Department announced the arrest of Anthony Josue Velasquez Alonzo, 20, in a news release.

An MPD officer attempted to stop a 2018 Toyota GT86 coupe on Interstate 77 about 12:29 a.m. on Sunday, according to the news release. The vehicle, which was being operated by Alonzo, was traveling at a high rate of speed and appeared to be racing two other vehicles on I-77 prior to the officer attempting to conduct a traffic stop, police said.

When the traffic stop was attempted, Alonzo failed to stop and continued traveling north on I-77, police said. During the ensuing pursuit, the suspect vehicle exited the interstate at Exit 49A in Statesville and continued eastbound on US Highway 70 into Salisbury city limits, according to the news release.

The vehicle stopped after turning onto Lash Drive, police said. With the assistance of Rowan County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the driver was arrested.

Alonzo was charged with Felony Fleeing to Elude Arrest and other traffic charges. He was taken before a magistrate and issued a $50,0000 secure bond.

The 2018 Toyota coupe driven by Alonzo was seized pursuant to NCGS 20-144.5(g), police said.