Law Enforcement Today
A high-speed pursuit in Arkansas on Tuesday ended tragically, resulting in the death of 29-year-old Laterrika Woods, the sister of Memphis rapper John Lotts, known as "Big Boogie." The Arkansas State Police pursued a truck driven by 30-year-old Torkilo Hambrick, who recklessly sped along I-40, exceeding 120 mph and weaving dangerously. The chase lasted over 18 miles until a trooper executed a Tactical Vehicle Intervention maneuver, forcing the vehicle off the interstate, which crashed violently into a ditch.
Woods was ejected from the vehicle during the crash and was pronounced dead at the scene. ASP Col. Mike Hager emphasized that this incident vividly illustrates the dangers posed by suspects fleeing from law enforcement, stating that such actions not only endanger the reckless driver but also impact the safety and well-being of entire communities. The State Police reaffirmed their commitment to respond decisively to such threats.
In addition to Woods, Hambrick and another passenger, Zuri Jones, sustained injuries and were taken to a local hospital in stable condition. A third passenger, 26-year-old Latricia Walker, was also ejected but survived; she remains in critical condition after being airlifted to a medical center. Reports suggest another individual, Taricaa Lashay, may have also survived but suffered severe injuries, including an amputated arm.
Hambrick, a registered sex offender with an extradition warrant from Tennessee for a probation violation, is expected to face charges related to Woods' death. The vehicle was found to contain firearms, narcotics, and a significant amount of cash, indicating further criminal implications associated with the incident.
In a strange turn of events, Hambrick reportedly livestreamed while being detained in the back of a police vehicle, expressing distress and making various claims about the pursuit, including that he was trying to pull over at the time of the crash. The ongoing investigation by the Arkansas State Police continues to unfold as they gather more details about the events leading up to this tragic incident.