FAYETTE COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – A welfare check in Smithers escalated into a high-speed chase and armed standoff on January 9, 2024, resulting in the arrest of Collin Lee Saba on multiple charges, including brandishing weapons and assaulting a law enforcement officer.
The incident began when Deputy J.A. Warshaw of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department received a call from the 911 Dispatch Center for a welfare check at 323 Midland Trail. Saba’s father informed Deputy Warshaw that his son had a history of suicide attempts but was not violent or armed.
Upon arriving at the location, Deputy Warshaw spotted a vehicle matching the description provided by dispatch. As the deputy approached, Saba attempted to flee, leading to a pursuit that extended onto Route 60 and Greyhound Lane. The chase ended when Saba’s vehicle became stuck in a yard at 315 Greyhound Lane, causing property damage.
Standoff and Arrest
As Deputy Warshaw approached the immobilized vehicle, Saba brandished two knives and refused multiple commands to exit the car. Backup officers from Montgomery Police Department arrived, and efforts to de-escalate the situation continued.
While officers attempted to block the vehicle’s exit, Saba managed to free the vehicle and drove toward officers at high speed, striking Deputy Warshaw’s hand with the vehicle mirror. Montgomery officers used a window breaker to gain access, and tasers were deployed, but Saba continued to resist.
Saba eventually retreated to the back of the vehicle, where he swung a knife at officers and ignored further commands. After a prolonged struggle, officers forcibly removed Saba from the vehicle, subdued him, and placed him in handcuffs.
Evidence Found
Deputy Warshaw reported a strong odor of alcohol on Saba, and a search of the vehicle revealed two unopened bottles of vodka, one empty bottle of Smirnoff, and one partially consumed bottle. Several prescription medications belonging to Saba were also discovered.
Charges Filed
Saba faces multiple charges, including:
- Brandishing a Weapon (two counts)
- Fleeing with Reckless Indifference
- Obstruction
- Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer
Saba was transported to Montgomery Hospital for evaluation, while deputies secured the scene and arranged for the vehicle to be towed.
