Suspect attempts to flee from traffic stop

Published 8:30 pm Thursday, July 28, 2022

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An Ashburn resident allegedly fled a traffic stop in Courtland on Tuesday, July 26, and led Southampton County deputies on a chase by vehicle and on foot that ended in the suspect’s arrest in the Sebrell area, according to the Southampton County Sheriff’s Office.

A sheriff’s office news release stated that a deputy sheriff stopped a driver for allegedly speeding in the 50-mph zone on Southampton Parkway in Courtland. 

After coming to a stop, the driver allegedly put the vehicle back in gear and took off, running through a red light at the intersection of Story Station Road, police said. 

Deputies pursued the suspect, who reportedly left U.S. Route 58, went through Courtland and eventually reached the Sebrell area, the release stated. It added that a deputy had an opportunity to end the pursuit by striking the vehicle with his patrol car. The driver then allegedly fled into the woods on foot but was quickly apprehended. 

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Abel Idemudia Guabadia, 22, of Ashburn, police said, adding that he has been charged with felony eluding, reckless driving, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. Additional charges are pending further investigation. He was being held at the Southampton County Jail with no bond. 

Guabadia was transported to Bon Secours – Southampton Medical Center where he was treated and released for minor injuries, the release stated. Law enforcement personnel involved did not sustain any injuries. 

Police said Route 35 through Sebrell was closed briefly before one lane was opened for alternating traffic. Eventually, traffic was detoured through Barn Tavern Road and River Road.