On March 17, 2024, at approximately 9:00 a.m., Lake Havasu City Police Officers were conducting a traffic control detail for the Lake Havasu Triathlon, in the area of London Bridge Rd. and El Camino Way. A 2011 Chevrolet Equinox disregarded traffic control devices and sped past officers who were blocking the intersection, nearly colliding with three bicyclists. A traffic stop was conducted on the vehicle in the 200 Blk of London Bridge Rd. The driver of the vehicle then intentionally accelerated in reverse and struck the officer’s vehicle before fleeing the traffic stop.

Lake Havasu City Police Officers then engaged in a vehicle pursuit with the subject which ultimately came to an end when the subject lost control of his vehicle near Highway 95 and Chenoweth Rd. where the vehicle collided with two other vehicles.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as 90 year old Lake Havasu City resident, John Welcher.  Welcher sustained minor injuries from the collision and was transported to Havasu Regional Medical Center for evaluation prior to being booked into the Mohave County Detention Center.  There were no reported injuries to officers or occupants of the other vehicles.

At this time, the individual's intentions in fleeing from law enforcement remain unclear. Further investigation is necessary to ascertain the motivations behind his actions.

John Welcher was charged with Unlawful flight from a Law Enforcement Vehicle, five counts of Aggravated Assault, three counts of Criminal Damage (exceeding $1000 in damage), two counts of Endangerment and two counts of Reckless Driving.

John is currently being held in custody at the Mohave County Detention Center in lieu of a $25,000 cash only bond. 

Public Information Officer: Sergeant Kyle Ridgway