Jan 07, 2024

Drone helped catch wanted Kansas felon after chase, crash

Posted Jan 07, 2024 11:00 PM
Halabi-photo McPherson Co.
Halabi-photo McPherson Co.

MCPHERSON COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects after following chase in McPherson County.

Just before 10p.m. Friday, a deputy with the McPherson County Sheriff's Office attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle on Interstate 135, according to a media release.

The vehicle fled into the City of Moundridge where it wrecked and two individuals fled from the vehicle.

A McPherson County Sheriff K-9 unit was deployed. The K-9 located one of the suspects and he was apprehended. The man was evaluated and transported to McPherson Hospital by Moundridge EMS. He was later released and transported to the McPherson County Jail.

Haag-photo McPherson Co.
Haag-photo McPherson Co.

Newton Police Department deployed their UAV drone where it located the second suspect. He was taken into custody, evaluated by McPherson EMS, and then transported to McPherson County Jail.

Kasey Haag, 31, is being held on requested charges of assault of a law enforcement officer; use of a deadly weapon, flee or attempt to elude; driving the wrong way in opposing traffic, interference with law enforcement, reckless driving, driving while suspended, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, failure to stop at an accident, probation violation, transporting an open container and possession of opiates and drug paraphernalia. Haag has four previous convictions for burglary and additional convictions for theft and aggravated robbery, according to the Kansas Department of Corrections.

Malek Halabi, 22, is being held on requested charges that include interference with law enforcement, knowingly flee, drug possession and transporting an open container.

 Newton Police Department, Kansas Highway Patrol, Inman Police Department, Moundridge Police Department, Moundridge EMS, & McPherson EMS all assisted in the sheriff's office with the arrest and transport.