(WNY News Now) – Jamestown, NY – In a dramatic series of events on November 2, 2024, a 55-year-old Lakewood man was arrested after leading police on a chaotic chase that began with reckless driving and ended with multiple traffic violations.
At approximately 6:56 PM, officers from the Jamestown Police Department’s 2nd platoon noticed a pickup truck speeding along East 5th Street near Fulton Street. The truck left the roadway, traveling on the sidewalk and curb before officers initiated a traffic stop. Instead of complying, the driver, later identified as David A. Bemis, continued westbound, running a red light at the intersection of East 5th Street and Prendergast Avenue.
Bemis’s erratic behavior escalated as he drove the wrong way on a one-way street. He left the road again at the corner of East 5th Street and Spring Street, striking street signs and veering onto the sidewalk before ascending an embankment. The vehicle continued through a nearby parking lot and yard, finally coming to a stop at the intersection of East 6th Street and Factory Alley.
Upon exiting the vehicle, Bemis was quickly apprehended by responding officers. An investigation revealed he was operating the vehicle while intoxicated. Bemis was found to have three prior DWI convictions, with one occurring within the last ten years, resulting in charges of Felony Driving While Intoxicated and Felony Aggravated Unlicensed Operator in the First Degree. He also faces numerous traffic violations related to the incident.
David A. Bemis is currently being held at the city jail, pending arraignment at Jamestown City Court. As are all persons accused of a crime, the accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.