Those visiting West Franklin Street around lunch time on Thursday may have witnessed a dramatic scene, as Chapel Hill Police officers chased after a man who then ran into a restaurant.
A release from the police department shed light on the incident later in the day. Police said officers spotted 21-year-old Jared Smith in the 300-block of West Franklin Street and realized he had outstanding warrants out for his arrest from Chapel Hill. When police attempted to serve those warrants, Smith ran from officers.
Thursday’s release said the 21-year-old than ran inside Chimney Indian Kitchen + Bar. Officers followed Smith in and “quickly took him into custody.” As the arrest was made, police say it was discovered Smith had a firearm in his possession.
Chapel Hill Police said Smith’s outstanding charges include financial card theft, driving while impaired, open container and simple possession of a Schedule VI substance. After Thursday’s foot chase, he now also faces a felony charge of possession of a firearm by a felon, injury to property and resisting police.
The police department said as of 2 p.m. on Thursday, no additional information is available.
Photo via Town of Chapel Hill.
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