FRANKLIN COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating two suspects on multiple allegations after a high-speed chase following a traffic stop in Franklin County.
Just before 3p.m. Tuesday, sheriff's deputies conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 35 in Franklin County for speeding. While talking with the driver and passenger, the deputies developed suspicion of drug possession and use.
Deputies removed the driver from the vehicle for questioning. When deputies returned to the vehicle to question the passenger, he locked the doors and moved to the drivers seat and sped away. Deputies detained the original driver at the scene.
Deputies pursued the fleeing vehicle northbound on I-35. During the pursuit, the driver fired a handgun at the deputies on a at least two occasions. The suspect lost control of the vehicle and crashed at Moonlight Road in Gardner. He ran from the crash into a wooded area.
Law enforcement established a perimeter with assistance from Johnson County deputies. Officer from a number of law enforcement agencies searched the area using a drone and aircraft. Eventually the suspect was located and taken into custody.
Deputies found a quantity of drugs and a firearm in the vehicle. Interstate 35 was shut down during the incident and reopened when it was safe.
The initial driver has been identified as Frank Rinderknecht, 55, Hiawathatha, Iowa. Deputies were working to positively identify the second suspect. Both are being held in the Franklin County Jail.