Report: Man Leads Deputies On Chase, Charged With DWI And Felony Fleeing

CLAYTON — A late-night traffic encounter turned into a high-speed pursuit after a Johnston County man allegedly fled from deputies while under the influence of alcohol.

David Mark Ingram, 54, of Rocky Place in Clayton, was arrested late Saturday night following a brief chase, according to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office.

The incident began around 11:30 p.m., when a deputy on routine patrol discovered a gray Honda Pilot stopped in the middle of Ranch Road, near Interstate 42 (formerly U.S. 70 Bypass). The vehicle was still in drive, and the driver appeared to be asleep behind the wheel.

After knocking on the window, the deputy was able to wake the driver, who rolled down the window. The deputy immediately noted a strong odor of alcohol, officials said.

When asked for his driver’s license, Ingram allegedly handed the deputy a blue debit card. Moments later, he reportedly tried to offer the officer a hamburger instead of identification.

According to the sheriff’s office, Ingram then made direct eye contact with the deputy before suddenly accelerating and fleeing the scene. A pursuit ensued, with speeds reportedly reaching up to 88 miles per hour.

The chase ended shortly afterward on Interstate 42, where Ingram eventually stopped and was taken into custody without further incident. During transport to the Johnston County Jail, Ingram allegedly apologized to deputies for his actions.

Authorities say Ingram refused to submit to a Breathalyzer test following his arrest.

He is now facing multiple charges, including felony fleeing to elude arrest, driving while impaired, and reckless driving.

His vehicle was seized under North Carolina’s Run and You’re Done law, which allows law enforcement to take possession of a vehicle used in a felony pursuit.