Morgan City man arrested after high speed chase

MORGAN CITY, La. (KLFY) - A Morgan City man faces multiple charges after a high speed chase on Friday. Authorities arrested Jeremiah Wiltz, 38 years old.

Officials say it started after the Morgan City Police Department responded to a complaint of a stolen vehicle parked at a local apartment complex. Upon arrival, the officer observed a silver-colored van matching the description. The officer parked behind the vehicle at which time the vehicle quickly backed up ramming officer's unit, in attempts to escape. The vehicle gained access to Hwy 182 headed toward Hwy 90 while in pursuit by officers of the Morgan City Police Department.

The vehicle traveled west on Hwy 90 at which time officers with the Berwick Police along with the St. Mary Parish Sheriff's Department joined in the pursuit. Officers lost visual on the suspect near the Bayou Vista area.

The vehicle was observed travelling East on Hwy 182 in Berwick and pursuit of the vehicle was reengaged. The vehicle was observed travelling at a high rate of speed dangerously passing vehicles traveling on the roadway. The pursuit continued through the township of Berwick where the suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot in the Fourth Street area. 

A perimeter of the area was initiated at which time the subject was located in the area of Sixth St. and Guzzetta Ln. when the suspect brandished a firearm and holding himself hostage. Negotiations were initiated with negotiators with the St. Mary Parish ISRT. The subject eventually surrendered and was taken into custody without incident. 

Wiltz is charged with Hit and Run, Possession of Stolen Things, and Aggravated Flight from Officer among other charges.