Teens Apprehended After Pursuit in Western Nebraska

JANUARY 2, 2026 (NORTH PLATTE, NEB.)  — Troopers with the Nebraska State Patrol have arrested one person after a pursuit and search in western Nebraska.

At approximately 6:30 p.m. MT Thursday, a trooper observed an Infinity Q50 traveling over 100 miles per hour on Interstate 80 near Big Springs. The trooper attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to yield and fled eastbound on I-80. The trooper initiated a pursuit.

During the pursuit, the suspect vehicle reached speeds of 140 miles per hour and passed vehicles on the shoulder. Near Sutherland, at mile marker 155, the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office successfully deployed spike strips to slow the vehicle. The vehicle exited I-80 at the Sutherland interchange and came to a stop on Highway 25. The driver fled on foot and the passenger immediately surrendered.

Troopers and Lincoln County Deputies searched the area for approximately one hour until the driver was located and taken into custody without further incident. A search of the vehicle revealed psilocybin mushrooms, THC edibles, drug paraphernalia, and a bottle of alcohol.

The driver, an 18-year-old male from Colorado, was lodged in Lincoln County Jail for flight to avoid arrest, resisting arrest, possession of a controlled substance, no operator’s license, and other charges. The passenger, also an 18-year-old male from Colorado, was cited for minor in possession of alcohol and possession of drug paraphernalia.