All lanes of Interstate 75 near High Springs were blocked for about four hours Thursday after a car chase led to a foot pursuit, during which a shot was fired, according to the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.
About 11:45 a.m., Alachua County deputies were assisting the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Florida Highway Patrol in a pursuit, which started on I-75 in Columbia County and traveled into Alachua County.
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During the pursuit, law enforcement officers performed a PIT maneuver and deployed stop sticks. The Alachua County Sheriff’s Office said the vehicle eventually came to a stop and then the driver ran from the vehicle, sparking a foot pursuit, during which deputies heard “what sounded like a gunshot.”
A search ensued, and the closure of the northbound and southbound lanes of I-75 was first reported about 12:50 p.m.
Just after 4 p.m., according to deputies, the 21-year-old man who fled was apprehended by K-9 Micco. Investigators said he was in possession of cannabis and a firearm, which he discharged during the foot pursuit.
Shortly after 4:40 p.m., troopers announced that all southbound lanes of I-75 had reopened. About 15 minutes later, FHP said the northbound lanes were also back open.
Deputies said the 21-year-old will be treated for injuries that he suffered when he was apprehended by the K-9. Deputies said he will be charged with fleeing and eluding law enforcement, possession of cannabis with intent to distribute and three counts of aggravated assault of a law enforcement officer.