MERCER COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) — A driver towing a trailer loaded with lawn equipment faces charges after allegedly fleeing a State Police trooper on Interstate 77 and striking a guardrail Sunday afternoon.
According to a criminal complaint, a trooper spotted a gray 2007 Dodge Dakota traveling south near mile marker 20 around 4:20 p.m. on October 4, 2026. The truck allegedly swerved out of its lane at least six times, twice traveling entirely onto the left shoulder, with other vehicles nearby.
The trooper attempted to stop the truck near mile marker 16 at approximately 4:23 p.m. Police said the driver took the rest area exit, accelerated through the rest area and reentered I-77 south.
The trooper pursued with emergency lights and sirens activated, reporting that the truck continued to veer out of its lane.
Officers deployed spike strips twice during the pursuit. According to the complaint, the driver swerved into another lane to avoid the first deployment near mile marker 9. A second attempt near mile marker 6 was also unsuccessful.
The pursuit ended near mile marker 5.5, where police said the driver lost control and sideswiped a guardrail on the right side of the highway.
The driver, identified as Christopher McCravey, allegedly refused repeated orders to exit the truck. Officers opened the driver’s door and removed him from the vehicle.
McCravey was arrested on charges of fleeing in a vehicle, reckless driving and obstructing. He was taken to Princeton Community Hospital for medical clearance before being transported to the State Police detachment in Princeton for processing.
The charges are allegations, and McCravey is presumed innocent unless proven guilty.
