Fairley's second arrest in as many months has people talking

MOBILE, Ala. (WALA) - Nick Fairley's black Cadillac Escalade was still sitting in the front yard of the family home on Murrwood Monday. 

It's the same SUV Alabama State Troopers said Fairley sped past a patrol car doing 100 mph around 3:30 a.m. Sunday.

Not 'a smart thing to do'

According to investigators, Fairley initially refused to stop for the emergency lights and sirens when the trooper tried to pull him over.

When he finally pulled over, troopers said Fairley seemed to be impaired.

He's charged with driving under the influence, attempting to allude police, reckless driving, having an open container in the vehicle as well as no proof of insurance.

"I don't think it was a smart thing to do," neighbor Charles Ebanks said.

News of Fairley's second arrest in less than two months spread quickly through the Morningside subdivision where NFL player is revered.

“With the second arrest, that kind of runs a red flag, there is something going on with him, something under the surface we’re not seeing,” said Edith Ebanks.

"It's hard to see him do things like that. But only God knows what's in his mind. I know he knew better," Ebanks said.

Familiar with the law

A lot of people were shocked when Fairley was arrested last month. Mobile Police said they found marijuana in his car.

Edith Ebanks never expected her former elementary school student would be picked up a second time.

"It's just heartbreaking that they have these chances in life and they just — it makes me sad," Ebanks said.

Chris Elridge said, whether he realizes it or not, Fairley is a role model for a lot of young kids in his old neighborhood, including Elridge's 8th grade son.

"He looks up to guys that have made it to the elite level, and that drives him to pursue a career in sports," he said.

But, Elridge isn't giving up on Fairley.

"The most things you can do when a guy is that young, and making that kind of money is pray that they make the right decisions," he said.

 Neither is Ebanks, ““I hope it’s not too late,” Edith said.  

Surmountable problems

State Troopers said, right now, Fairley is facing a lot of tickets. It's not good, but it's a problem he can likely overcome.

The people we talked to in his old neighbor said they realize the situation could have turned out much worse.  They're just thankful for the sake of a favored son, it didn't.

"We in this neighborhood, in this community, we support Nick, and we hope he get a chance to right all his wrongs, his mistakes and go on and have a good career," Elridge said.

Fairley has a bond hearing set for 8:30 am Tuesday.