A burglary call in the early hours of Sunday led to a high-speed pursuit, multiple arrests, and the recovery of a firearm and stolen property in Bellefontaine, according to the Bellefontaine Police Department.
Just after 1:00 AM, officers were called to a home on North Madriver Street after a report of a burglary.
As officers arrived on the scene, the caller pointed toward the Marathon gas station on East Sandusky Avenue, saying the suspects had just fled the area.
Soon after, officers saw a vehicle driving the wrong way on a one-way street near the gas station.
The driver ignored emergency lights and sirens, leading police on a dangerous pursuit through the city.
The fleeing vehicle reached speeds of up to 70 mph in the 35 mph zone, ran multiple stop signs, and drove into oncoming lanes before finally stopping in the 800 block of East Sandusky Avenue.
Three men jumped out of the car and fled on foot.
Officers apprehended the driver, identified as Siataga Phillips, 27, of Rushsylvania, who was found drinking alcohol inside the vehicle and became verbally aggressive during his arrest.
A semi-automatic 9mm handgun was recovered from the driver’s seat.
The gun had no magazine or round chambered, and no ammunition was found in the car.
Phillips faces multiple charges, including:
- Failure to Comply with a Police Order
- Improper Handling of Firearms in a Motor Vehicle
- Obstructing Official Business
- Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence
- Aggravated Menacing
Passenger Fa’aleo Falefata, 21, of Rushsylvania, was also arrested after repeatedly refusing lawful orders and attempting to exit the vehicle.
He was charged with Disorderly Conduct.
Two additional passengers, Onosai Tonise, 24, of Rushsylvania, and Taumafai Tonise, 24, of Rushsylvania, were apprehended and charged with Obstructing Official Business.
A fifth suspect, Andrew Fa’asu, 36, of Rushsylvania, was found shortly after the chase wearing different clothes and attempting to disguise his identity.
He was also charged with Obstructing Official Business.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered stolen Nike Air Force One shoes and alcohol containers.
A stolen phone was recovered from one of the suspects.
According to officers, one of the burglary victims had been punched and knocked unconscious during the incident at the gas station.
All five suspects were transported to the Logan County Jail, where further charges may be pending.
While some victims declined to pursue charges related to the assault and theft, the investigation continues.
