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On Wednesday afternoon, two Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies traveled to the intersection of Highway 25 north and Highway 38 in reference to reports of an unresponsive driver behind the wheel of a vehicle with the engine running, according to WPSO Chief Deputy Mike Haley.

Once there, the deputies reportedly encountered a male in the driver’s seat who appeared to be asleep or passed out. After several attempts, the officers were able to arouse the man who appeared to be very confused.

Haley said that the driver produced a Florida driver’s license, identifying himself as John Carl Brian Thierry, a resident of Orlando, Fla. He was instructed to exit the vehicle, at which time he sped off heading west on Louisiana Highway 38.

With deputies in pursuit, he made a sudden stop and U-turn, heading east on Highway 38. At the intersection with Louisiana Highway 25, he reportedly failed to stop and turned south on Highway 25, reaching speeds of 90 miles per hour and forcing other vehicles off of the roadway.

As the pursuing officer closed in on him, Thierry slammed on brakes and made another U-turn heading north on Highway 25, Haley said. He then made yet another sudden U-turn, heading south again. By this time, other WPSO deputies had responded and were in the vicinity.

Suddenly, while traveling south, Thierry crossed the northbound lane onto the shoulder and struck a culvert before his vehicle went airborne and came to rest in the yard of a residence, Haley said. Thierry was removed from the vehicle and handcuffed.

Northshore EMS responded to the scene and medically evaluated and treated Thierry. Ambulance personnel then transported him to a hospital in St. Tammany Parish for further treatment.

Haley said that Thierry’s vehicle was inventoried by deputies on the scene. Three firearms and more than $600 in loose bills scattered throughout the vehicle were recovered and placed in evidence for safekeeping.

Haley said that a warrant for Thierry’s arrest was obtained through a 22nd Judicial District Court Judge. Upon Thierry’s release from the hospital, he will be arrested and jailed on charges of aggravated flight from an officer, resisting an officer, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, traveling at an unsafe speed and other traffic offenses. Bond will be set by the magistrate judge.

“What a blessing that no officers or other motorists were injured during Mr. Thierry’s episode of senseless behavior,” Washington Parish Sheriff Randy Seal said. “What was he doing in Washington Parish? Why was he asleep at the wheel? Why did he flee?

“These are questions that, hopefully, can be answered one day as he stands before a judge. His behavior certainly jeopardized the safety of numerous persons and he must be held accountable.”