Teen arrested after chase, crash

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - A teenager was behind bars on Friday after leading Mobile Police on a brief chase.

Mobile Police said Gerald Hayden initiated the whole incident, which started at Cottage Hill Road and I-65 Thursday night and ended at Government Blvd. and Mc Vay Drive.

"A vehicle went through the intersection and almost struck a police vehicle. So he was going to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver refused to stop for the officer and he pursued down Pleasant Valley to Government," said Cpl. Chris Levy, with MPD.

Police said Gerald Hayden lost control of his car at Government and Mc Vay and crashed into another one. Police said the 19-year-old tried to run but didn't get far. He was arrested on the spot.

Levy said Hayden told police he didn't stop because he was afraid he had warrants out for his arrest.

"The whole thing seems like a giant waste of time. Where, if he would have just stopped and gotten a traffic ticket for running a red light, he was charged with several crimes — including running that red light," said Cpl. Levy.

Hayden was charged with attempting to elude police and leaving the scene of an accident.

Mobile Metro Jail records show he's been arrested in the past for possession of marijuana, domestic violence and harassment. Hayden has been released from Mobile Metro Jail.