Deputy Injured, Suspect Loses Legs After Pursuit

News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- A suspect was critically injured after a high-speed pursuit in northwest Oklahoma City that also left an Oklahoma County Sheriff's Deputy injured.

Authorities said Deputy Chris Findley attempted to pull over William Gregory Byrd, 29, who was on a motorcycle near Northwest 23rd Street and MacArthur Boulevard around 10:15 p.m. Friday. That's when Byrd took off at a high rate of speed heading south to Highway 152.

The chase reached speeds of over 100 mph. Police then pursued Byrd east on Interstate 240 to Interstate 40 where Byrd exited at the Harrah/Newalla exit 172. Byrd then made a last second decision to get back on to I-40 and collided with an exit sign.

On impact, Byrd severed his left leg and fractured his right leg. Doctors later had to amputate Byrd's right leg because of extensive damage he suffered in the crash.

A deputy following Byrd also collided into the sign losing control and rolling his vehicle. The deputy was trapped in the vehicle until backup arrived and was able pulled him out.

"The great thing about the deputy and his seemingly minor injuries is the fact that we have roll bars from the rear cages in all of our patrol vehicles. That and the fact that he was belted in saved his life," said Oklahoma County Sheriff John Whetsel.

Deputy Findley suffered a broken tailbone and was released from the hospital.

Byrd was transported to the hospital in critical condition.

Authorities said Byrd had an active warrant stemming from a charge of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle.