RAINBOW CITY– The Rainbow City Police Department says a traffic stop Saturday, Oct. 3, led to charges against a Gadsden man and a juvenile.

Officers stopped a white sedan for a traffic violation near West Hartwood Drive at approximately 3:50 p.m. During the stop, two occupants exited the vehicle, and officers ordered them to get back inside.

However, as an officer approached, the passenger fled on foot, according to the release. Police said the passenger tripped and fell during the pursuit. The passenger then removed a firearm from their waistband and threw it, the department said. Officers took the passenger into custody.

The driver also fled on foot. Officers established a perimeter and requested help from neighboring law enforcement agencies. They later located the driver and took him into custody at approximately 5:35 p.m.

Police identified the driver as Devarius Harris, 21, of Gadsden. The department said Harris had multiple outstanding warrants. He now faces a charge of Attempting to Elude.

Police also charged the passenger, a juvenile under 18. However, the department said it would not release the juvenile’s identity or specific charges because of their age.

In addition, Rainbow City Police credited the Southside Police Department, Etowah County Sheriff’s Office, and Gadsden Police Department for their assistance. The agency thanked the Steele Police Department. It recognized the Alabama Department of Corrections in St. Clair County and the Attalla Police Department as well.

The department praised its officers’ work during the incident.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

AREA NEWS