CLEVELAND, Ohio (WOIO) – A police chase Tuesday nearly led to the Newburgh Heights Police Chief being hit by the suspect’s car while dodging Stop Sticks.

Police were first called to the Shell gas station on Harvard Avenue after a fight in the parking lot. When officers arrived, a black Kia Soul drove away from the parking lot, with officers warning the group was very intoxicated.

A police car driven by Chief John Majoy was a few blocks away and advised that the suspects were heading his way. In an attempt to stop the car, he parked his car and deployed Stop Sticks. The Kia attempted to avoid the Stop Sticks by going around and heading towards Chief Majoy. Majoy managed to jump before being hit, lightly injuring his shoulder.

The chase continued for about 20 minutes before the car stopped on 271. Michael Harris, 45, of Woodmere, then did not cooperate with police commands, even attempting to grab the Taser of an officer.

Harris continued to refuse orders when officers took him to the ground. Harris then fought the officers, grabbing the deployed K-9’s face. The struggle ended when a Taser was used and Harris was handcuffed.

Harris was accused of:

• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
• Reckless operation
• Aggravated murder, intent to kill law enforcement
• Resisting arrest
• Criminal assault

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