Two Men Arrested After Armed Police Chase Ends Inside Barber Shop
Covington, Tenn. — A tense police chase ended dramatically Thursday afternoon when one suspect fled armed and hid inside a barber shop, prompting a swift arrest, officials confirmed.
The incident began near Highway 51 and Church Street in Downtown Covington, where a police officer attempted to pull over a vehicle for a broken brake light.
While stopped, the passenger, identified as 24-year-old Damian Lattimore, jumped out armed with a rifle and ran down West Pleasant Street. In an unexpected move, Lattimore entered the 1776 Barbershop Parlor and sat in a barber chair, pretending to be a customer waiting for a haircut.
The police quickly surrounded the barbershop and made the arrest. Authorities confirmed the rifle, described as pink in color, was recovered nearby near the local water treatment facility.
Lattimore now faces charges including evading arrest, tampering with evidence, and reckless endangerment, and is awaiting a bond hearing.
Driver Flees During Chaos, Later Caught and Charged
Meanwhile, the driver of the vehicle, 21-year-old Vertavious Barbee, escaped from the scene and led police on a separate chase. Authorities in Ripley tracked him down on Skyline Drive, where he was apprehended.
Barbee faces charges of evading arrest and violation of light law. His bond was set at $15,000.
Law enforcement officials praised the quick coordination between city and regional police for the swift capture of both suspects before any harm was done to the public.
“The professionalism and quick response from all officers involved prevented what could have been a dangerous situation from escalating,” Covington Police said.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges law enforcement face with armed suspects and evasive drivers in urban areas, underscoring risks to public safety everywhere.
Authorities continue to investigate the motives behind the chase and the presence of the rifle. Further updates will follow after bond hearings and court proceedings.
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