(Harlan, Ky.) - On July 26, 2015, the Kentucky State Police was conducting a traffic safety checkpoint on KY HWY 72 in the Blackmont Community of Bell County. The operator of a 2002 Chevrolet pick-up truck ran through the checkpoint and swerved to strike Troopers.
The truck continued to travel onto a rail road bed and became stuck.
The two occupants fled from the scene on foot.
The Troopers pursued the fleeing suspects into a wooded area.
Trooper Josh Messer received a non-life threatening injury during the foot pursuit and was airlifted to the University of Tennessee Medical Center.
Trooper Messer is in stable condition at this time.
The passenger, Paula Gregory Foley was arrested at the scene and lodged in the Bell County Detention Center.
The driver, Basil Gilpin has not been located and has active warrants for him at this time.
Gilpin is wanted for two counts of Wanton Endangerment 1st degree- police officer, Fleeing or evading police 1st degree, Assault 3rd – police officer, and multiple other drug and traffic charges.
If anyone has information on a location for Gilpin please contact the Kentucky State Police post in Harlan 606-573-3131.
Pictured is the passenger, Paula Foley courtesy of the Bell County Detention Center.
