The Priceville police officer placed on leave following a fatal weekend chase is Garry Chapman, the son of reality TV personality Duane “Dog the Bounty Hunter” Chapman.
On Saturday evening, a high-speed police chase that began in Priceville ended in a multi-vehicle crash in nearby Hartselle. A 17-year-old was killed in the wreck, and five other people were hospitalized.
The chase began after Chapman attempted to pull over a suspect for moving violations and suspicion of DUI. The suspect, identified as 40-year-old Archie Brandon Hale, fled but was later taken into custody.
Chapman was placed on leave following the incident. According to Priceville Police Chief Jerry Holmes, this is standard policy in such cases, and an internal investigation is underway.
The crash claimed the life of 17-year-old Tristan Hollis and injured five others.
A graveside funeral service for Hollis will be held Thursday at Hartselle City Cemetery.
The crash occurred at the intersection of Highway 36 and U.S. 31 in Hartselle.
Some social media users questioned whether the pursuit should have continued once it entered Hartselle, where traffic was heavier.
Under Alabama law, the arrested driver is considered innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Obituary of Tristan Kain Hollis.
Jim Zig Zeigler is a contributing writer for Yellowhammer News. His beat includes the positive and colorful about Alabama – her people, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is former State Auditor and Public Service Commissioner. You can reach him at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com
