Speeding driver arrested after pursuit near downtown Merced, police say

A speeding driver was arrested after attempted to flee police in Merced, according to authorities.

At about 8 a.m. Tuesday, an officer attempted to stop a speeding Dodge Charger in the 2000 block of G Street traveling south at more than 70 mph, according to a Merced Police Department news release.

When the officer pulled in behind the vehicle, the driver accelerated at a high rate of speed and turned west onto West 18th Street. Police said the driver continued to drive through the residential neighborhood at speeds in excess of 70 mph while failing to yield for several stop signs.

The driver continued to M Street and turned south toward 16th Street, where another officer was able to intercept the vehicle, according to police.

The driver then continued west toward Highway 59 when he turned north and ultimately yielded at West North Bear Creek Drive, police said.

Authorities said the driver, identified as Johnathan Cornelius Townsend Jr., 20, laid on the ground after exiting the vehicle and surrendered to police.

Townsend was arrested on suspicion of felony evading and reckless driving, according to police.

Police ask anyone with information regarding this alleged crime to contact Officer McKeeman at 209-388-7723 or McKeemanc@cityofmerced.org.