Felon charged in NC high-speed chase caught after running out of gas, sheriff’s office says

A felon accused of engaging in a high-speed pursuit in North Carolina was apprehended by law enforcement after running out of fuel, the sheriff’s office stated.

The suspect, identified as Elmer Ray Hughes Jr., was charged with fleeing to elude arrest, driving while license revoked, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a stolen firearm, and other associated infractions.

The incident transpired on Tuesday afternoon when the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call regarding a vehicle pursuit on Highway 17 in Winnabow.

According to the sheriff’s office, Hughes, who was operating a stolen vehicle, engaged in a pursuit with officers at speeds in excess of 100 mph. Hughes eventually ran out of gas and was subsequently apprehended by law enforcement personnel.

“The suspect was taken into custody without incident,” said Sgt. Steven N. Johnson of the Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office.

The sheriff’s office added that Hughes had been previously convicted of numerous felonies, including possession of a controlled substance and larceny.

Upon further investigation, officers discovered that Hughes was in possession of a stolen handgun. He was booked into the Brunswick County Detention Facility and is due to appear in court on October 8.

The Brunswick County Sheriff’s Office declared that the successful apprehension of Hughes was a testament to their commitment to curtailing crime in the community.