What began as a simple traffic stop turned into a multi-county police chase and ended in a death investigation on Wednesday, January 18.
At 10:12 a.m., Kentucky State Police Troopers spotted a 2016 white Lincoln SUV driving in a careless manner, according to Post 11 Public Affairs Officer Scottie Pennington.
“Troopers being troopers, ya know, we went to investigate it and when troopers approached the vehicle, the suspect took off at a high rate of speed,” Pennington said.
Police then initiated a vehicle pursuit that traveled through Madison and Rockcastle Counties and eventually ended in Laurel County.
While in Laurel County, the suspect collided with several state trooper vehicles as he attempted to get away. This caused the suspect to lose control, and once the vehicle was disabled, he was put into custody by officers.
Police then conducted a search of the vehicle.
“Troopers located what they thought to be a body in the back seat of the vehicle,” he said. “Upon further investigation, they confirmed it was a deceased female in the back of the vehicle.”
The female’s body has been sent to the State Medical Examiner’s Office in Frankfort for an autopsy. Her name will not be released until the next of kin is notified.
The cause of death is undetermined at this time, and foul play is suspected.
David M. Reed, 54, of Florida, is accused of Murder – Domestic Violence, Abuse of a Corpse, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Fleeing or Evading Police - First Degree, Criminal Mischief - Second Degree, Wanton Endangerment – Second Degree Police Officer, Careless Driving, Resisting Arrest, and No Operator’s License.
He was lodged in Laurel County Correctional Center and will appear in Laurel County court on Friday, January 20, at 9 a.m.
Detective Ryan Loudermalk continues to investigate.
Kentucky State Police Post 11, Richmond Post 7, London City Police, Laurel County Sheriff's Office, Rockcastle Sheriff’s Office, Mt. Vernon Police Department, and Laurel County Coroner’s Office assisted.
Staff Report by The Kentucky Daily
Photo courtesy of Laurel County Correctional Center