Charleston Deputies Arrest Man After Violent Pursuit
A kidnapping suspect was taken into custody after a chase that ended in a collision near the Ashley River Memorial Bridge.
Updated on Oct. 12, 2026 in Sex Crimes
Deputies arrested 26-year-old Michael Voorhees on multiple charges including kidnapping following a high-speed vehicle pursuit in Charleston. The suspect allegedly refused to let a woman out of a stolen vehicle before fleeing from law enforcement.
Why it matters
The incident highlights the dangers law enforcement face during pursuits involving suspects accused of violent crimes. By safely rescuing the victim and apprehending the suspect, officers prevented further escalation of this situation.
Michael Voorhees faces charges including kidnapping, hit-and-run, and assault on a police officer following his booking at the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center. The stolen vehicle involved in the incident is valued at more than $10,000.
The players
Michael Voorhees
He is the 26-year-old suspect who was apprehended following a vehicle pursuit and charged with kidnapping.
Charleston County Sheriff's Office
This law enforcement agency is responsible for the investigation and the detention of the suspect at the local facility.
The details
After a woman called 911 because she was being held against her will, deputies located the vehicle near Leopold Street. Voorhees released the woman in a neighborhood but fled, leading deputies to deploy stop sticks before he collided with a patrol cruiser.
Timeline
Deputies received the initial 911 call regarding the incident on October 11, 2026, at 2:00 a.m.
Legal Context
This incident follows the established patterns for vehicle pursuit safety as outlined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's vehicle pursuit safety guidelines. Local authorities often must balance the necessity of stopping a dangerous suspect against the risks posed to the public.
Residents should remain aware of potential traffic delays or temporary road closures near the Ashley River Memorial Bridge following the collision. Local law enforcement maintains the Sheriff Al Cannon Detention Center to hold suspects as legal proceedings move forward.
The takeaway
Vehicle pursuits involving violent suspects present significant safety hazards to the entire community. Residents are encouraged to report suspicious vehicle behavior immediately to help authorities intervene before dangerous chases occur.
Further reading
For more information on ongoing legal matters, visit our Sex Crimes section.
