A wanted man in Pine Bluff was taken into custody Tuesday after a dramatic police pursuit ended in a fiery crash near a local community center.
Suspect Linked to Earlier Shooting
Authorities identified the suspect as Rickey Ray, 36, who had been wanted in connection with a shooting reported on April 17 in the 2100 block of West 30th Avenue.
Multi-Agency Search Leads to Chase
According to the Pine Bluff Police Department, multiple agencies—including Arkansas State Police and the United States Marshals Service—were involved in tracking Ray over several days.
At one point, he abandoned his vehicle near a highway marker and fled into a field, temporarily evading capture despite a police perimeter.
Pursuit Ends in Crash Near Community Center
Ray was later spotted again, prompting another pursuit. Police say he drove recklessly, ran a stop sign at 2nd and Walnut, and collided with another vehicle near the Donald W. Reynolds Community Center.
The crash caused significant damage and ended the chase.
Injuries Reported, No Other Victims Hurt
Ray sustained multiple injuries in the crash and was taken into custody. The driver of the other vehicle involved was not injured, according to officials.
Charges Filed Against Suspect
Following his arrest, Ray faces several serious charges, including:
- Possession of a firearm by certain persons
- First-degree battery
- Felony fleeing
Investigation Continues
Authorities say the investigation is ongoing as they continue to gather details surrounding both the initial shooting and the pursuit.