SCOTTSBORO, Ala.– Authorities arrested a Mississippi man Saturday morning following a multi-agency pursuit that stretched approximately 25 miles across Jackson County.

On February 28, 2026, at approximately 8:46 a.m., officers responded to a theft call in the 24000 block of Highway 72. Dispatch provided patrol units with a description of the suspect and vehicle.

Officers soon located the suspect vehicle — a silver GMC truck pulling a 44-foot trailer — in the Zaxby’s parking lot. When officers attempted a stop, the driver struck a drive-thru stand with the trailer, drove through a flower bed, destroyed a business sign, and fled the scene.

A pursuit was initiated.

The vehicle traveled north on Veterans Drive before turning east onto U.S. 72. The pursuit continued through Hollywood, Stevenson, and into Bridgeport. Assistance was provided by the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office, Stevenson Police Department, and Bridgeport Police Department. Marion County, Tennessee authorities were also notified.

Near the intersection of County Road 75 and U.S. 72, officers observed smoke coming from the engine compartment. The vehicle slowed and pulled onto the shoulder. The driver exited and fled into a wooded area.

Following a brief foot pursuit, the suspect was taken into custody with assistance from multiple agencies.

During the foot pursuit, the vehicle caught fire and was later extinguished by the Bridgeport Volunteer Fire Department. The truck and trailer were declared a total loss.

Officers later confirmed the incident began as a shoplifting case involving the theft of several items. Some of the stolen property was recovered inside the burned vehicle.

The suspect was identified as 50-year-old Michael Lee White of Tupelo, Mississippi. White was transported to the Scottsboro City Jail and later transferred to the Jackson County Jail on felony charges.

White is charged with:

• Attempting to Elude (Felony – 20+ mph over posted speed)
• Criminal Mischief 1st Degree
• Resisting Arrest
• Theft of Property 4th Degree
• Reckless Driving (citation)

No officers or civilians were injured during the incident.

Officials say the case underscores both the dangers of fleeing law enforcement and the effectiveness of coordinated response efforts between agencies.