Four Taken Into Custody Following Pursuit From Florence to Athens

According to media reports, four people were taken into custody Thursday after a vehicle connected to a felony shoplifting investigation in Florence led authorities on a pursuit into Athens.

Lauderdale County Sheriff Joe Hamilton said deputies initially responded to a reported felony shoplifting incident at TJ Maxx in Florence. Authorities said the amount of merchandise allegedly stolen made the offense a felony.

A deputy later spotted a vehicle believed to be connected to the investigation traveling east on Florence Boulevard. When the deputy attempted a traffic stop, authorities said the driver refused to stop and continued east on U.S. 72 into Limestone County.

Athens Police joined the pursuit and attempted to deploy spike strips near Lucas Ferry Road, but the vehicle avoided them. A second attempt in front of Walmart on U.S. 72 was successful and the vehicle was stopped.

Athens Police arrested the driver, while two other occupants were arrested on unrelated felony warrants. Authorities said additional charges from multiple agencies are expected as the investigation continues.