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WATCH: Chaotic Police Chase Ends with Driver Slamming into Cop Car

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Kylie Werner, Reporter

Maricopa, AZ — Disturbing new police footage has emerged, capturing the moments surrounding a suicide attempt by Lane A. Patton, 30, and his subsequent flight from law enforcement. The incident, which took place on February 25, has raised serious concerns regarding mental health crises and police interactions.

According to reports, Patton’s girlfriend was in distress at the scene, speaking to emergency dispatchers just moments before he nearly ran her over in his truck. She had called 911 to report his alarming behavior, stating he had cut his wrists and fled in a green pickup truck.

When officers arrived at Manderas Lane and Morena Place in Santa Rosa Springs shortly before 3 p.m., they found Patton driving erratically in the nearby area. Footage shows him performing donuts in the dirt, endangering nearby individuals, including his girlfriend and Officer Andrew Morrison, who was interviewing her.

As officers pursued him south on Manderas Lane, Patton executed a sudden U-turn, racing back toward his girlfriend and colliding with Morrison’s police cruiser. The impact resulted in minor injuries to Morrison and significant damage to the police vehicle, which is estimated at around $10,000.

Patton was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Pinal County Jail on multiple charges, including unlawful flight and aggravated assault. He pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of endangerment by risk of imminent death on March 5 in Pinal County Superior Court.

The emotional toll on all involved raises awareness about the importance of mental health resources, especially in crisis situations. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding police encounters with individuals experiencing mental health crises.