Michael Gonzalez, inset, allegedly led Marion County, Florida, sheriff’s deputies on a 100 mph chase on Feb. 4, 2024, just for “fun” and because he didn’t think he would get caught. A deputy dashcam video captured his arrest at a 7-Eleven gas station. He’s charged with fleeing and eluding with wanton disregard for persons or property. (Marion County Sheriff’s Office)
A 19-year-old man is behind bars after he allegedly led Florida cops on a 100 mph chase just for “fun.”
Marion County Sheriff Corporal Jordan Tripp was at a stop light around 10:30 p.m. on Sunday when a 2002 BMW went flying through the light at 100 mph, according to a probable cause arrest affidavit reviewed by Law&Crime. Tripp turned on his emergency lights and started chasing the car. The driver, identified as 19-year-Michael Joseph Gonzalez, later spun out on a curb and left the road.
Tripp drove up to Gonzalez, but he sped off, the affidavit said. Gonzalez allegedly continued his speedy joy ride at 90 mph, running other cars off the road. Trip tried to spin the car out but was unsuccessful, and Gonzalez again sped away.
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Because Gonzalez was going so fast, Tripp stopped chasing him.
About 30 minutes later, other deputies spotted Gonzalez pulling into a 7-Eleven gas station. Officers conducted a felony traffic stop and took Gonzalez into custody.
“Post Miranda, the driver advised he had fled from law enforcement because he thought he could get away with it and it would be fun,” the affidavit said.
Deputies arrested Gonzalez on a charge of fleeing and eluding with wanton disregard for persons or property. They took him to the Marion County Jail. Gonzalez has since posted a $5,000 bond. His next court date is scheduled for March 5.
