Macon driver charged with crashing into deputy’s car during chase, causing injuries

A Macon man was arrested after he allegedly crashed into a deputy’s patrol car on purpose Saturday, according to the Bibb County Sheriff’s Office.

The crash happened at the end of a chase, which started when deputies tried to pull over Matthew Eric Harper, 42, for driving with high-beam headlights on Broadway around 9 p.m., a news release said. Officers also discovered the Ford Expedition had a canceled registration and no insurance.

“The driver refused to stop, leading deputies on a brief pursuit,” a media release from the sheriff’s office said. “While fleeing the driver intentionally rammed a deputy’s patrol vehicle head on.”

The sheriff’s office Special Response Team arrested Harper Sunday morning after he fled on foot, according to Sgt. Christopher Williams.

One deputy sustained “a non-life threatening injury” and was taken to a medical facility, the sheriff’s office said. Harper also had “minor injuries” and was taken to a medical facility for treatment.

After Harper was released from the facility, he was taken to the Bibb County Law Enforcement Center. He was denied bond and faces charges of felony fleeing and eluding law enforcement officers, felony aggravated assault on a peace officer, not having valid insurance, and multiple other traffic and equipment violations, according to the sheriff’s office.

This story was originally published August 26, 2024 at 2:30 PM.