06/06/2026
SOUTHMAYD POLICE DEPARTMENT
PRESS RELEASE – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: June 6, 2026
Contact: Chief Jeff Laughlin
Address: 304 McElroy Street, Southmayd, TX 76268
Phone: (903) 868-1212
Email: [email protected]
Website: southmaydtx.com/southmayd-police-department
Arrest for Evading Arrest/Detention with a Motor Vehicle
Southmayd, Texas – On June 6, 2026, at approximately 9:30 a.m., Officer Hall attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on Highway 56 within the city limits of Southmayd.
After Officer Hall turned around and activated his emergency lights, the driver continued westbound on Highway 56 before making an abrupt turn onto McElroy Street and then another abrupt turn onto Belknap Street in an apparent attempt to evade the traffic stop. The vehicle ultimately came to a stop near the intersection of Belknap Street and Old Southmayd Road.
During the subsequent investigation, the driver admitted that he was attempting to avoid being stopped and stated that he was unsure whether Officer Hall had observed him turn off Highway 56.
The driver was arrested and charged with Evading Arrest/Detention with a Motor Vehicle. The vehicle was inventoried and released to Frank's Towing. Officer Benitez remained with the vehicle while Officer Hall transported the subject to jail without incident.