By WECT Staff | November 19, 2020 at 3:37 PM EST – Updated November 20 at 12:41 PM
WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – A driver was arrested after crashing his car at a Wilmington home while fleeing from law enforcement Thursday afternoon.
A spokeswoman for Alcohol Law Enforcement said ALE agents were at a Market Street business and approached an individual, identified as Sean Ray Panno, who was sitting in a vehicle, preparing to inject himself with illegal drugs.
As the agents got closer, Panno took off in his Honda Accord at a high rate of speed, nearly striking one of the agents, according to the spokeswoman.
“Special agents attempted to locate the vehicle, and observed it near 6th and Castle Street. Agents activated their blue lights and sirens in order to catch up to the vehicle,” the spokeswoman stated.
Panno lost control of his car and crashed into a brick wall beside a home at the intersection of Third and Castle streets. He attempted to flee the scene on foot, but was taken into custody without incident. He was checked out by paramedics and refused further treatment.
The spokeswoman said Panno admitted to possessing and using illegal drugs, and discarded the evidence prior to being caught.
He was charged with fleeing to elude law enforcement, failing to stop for blue lights, and other traffic offense.
No other injuries were reported.
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