Lady Lake police officers used drone technology Saturday night to locate a driver who fled into a wooded area after a two-vehicle crash on U.S. Highway 27/441.
Around 7:40 p.m., officers responded to a crash where a Chevrolet Tahoe was seen driving at a high speed before rear-ending a Ford F-150 on U.S. Highway 441 near Longview Avenue in Lady Lake. Officers found the Tahoe unoccupied and discovered ammunition, an empty prescription bottle, and personal property inside the vehicle linking it to a local man, Tyler Davis, 28. The Tahoe’s driver had left the scene on foot, according to witnesses.
Witnesses reported seeing a man run into nearby woods. Officers searched the area and deployed the department’s drone, which detected a heat signature in dense brush. Sgt. Heather Couch and Officer Steven Johnson located a man later identified as Davis lying on the ground. Davis appeared impaired and was treated for injuries before being transported by EMS to Ocala Regional Medical Center.
Davis will face several charges upon his release from the hospital and pending blood alcohol testing, including failing to stop for a crash involving bodily injuries and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.
Chief Steve Hunt praised officers for their swift response and effective use of new department technology.
“Our officers showed exceptional professionalism during a chaotic scene,” Hunt said. “Their decision to deploy the drone allowed us to quickly locate the individual and bring this situation to a safe conclusion. This is exactly how technology enhances public safety.”