Dallas police say a man in custody broke free from handcuffs, climbed into the front seat of a patrol unit, and drove onto Interstate 35 with an officer still inside the vehicle. The case has drawn attention after investigators released details describing a struggle that unfolded while the patrol car was moving through traffic.
Authorities identified the suspect as 37-year-old Stacey Huffman. Police say he now faces additional charges connected to the incident once he is released from a hospital in Dallas.
Investigators said the incident unfolded Saturday evening after officers stopped Huffman during a traffic stop. Police said officers arrested him on charges that included possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a firearm.
According to investigators, Huffman had been placed in the back of a patrol unit in handcuffs while officers remained outside the vehicle. Police say he managed to free his left hand before moving from the rear seat into the driver’s position.
Officers Confront Suspect Inside Patrol Unit
Dallas police say officers realized Huffman had moved into the front seat and attempted to stop him before the vehicle left the scene. One officer entered the back seat while Huffman remained behind the wheel.
Investigators said the officer used a Taser during the confrontation. Police said the device did not stop Huffman from driving away.
Authorities said the officer then struck Huffman in the head with his weapon while the struggle continued inside the moving patrol car. Police have not released details about how fast the vehicle was traveling or how far it traveled before the situation changed again.
The patrol unit eventually reached Interstate 35, where police say the confrontation continued while other officers responded. Investigators have not said whether other vehicles were involved or whether drivers on the interstate were forced to take evasive action during the incident.
Struggle Ends on Interstate 35
Police said Huffman later opened the door of the patrol unit and exited the moving vehicle. Authorities have not stated whether he jumped or fell from the car during the incident.
Officer Kenneth Harper regained control of the patrol unit after Huffman left the vehicle, according to investigators. The officer brought the vehicle under control on the interstate before emergency crews arrived.
Both Huffman and Harper were transported to a hospital following the incident. Police later confirmed Harper had been treated and released.
Huffman remained hospitalized as of the latest update from investigators. Authorities have not released details about the extent of his injuries or whether he has undergone surgery.
Charges and Investigation Continue
Police say Huffman will face additional charges connected to the patrol car theft and the confrontation with officers once he is released from medical care. Investigators have not announced the full list of charges that prosecutors may pursue.
The original charges tied to the traffic stop included possession of a controlled substance and unlawful possession of a firearm. Authorities have not disclosed what led officers to stop Huffman before the arrest.
Investigators also have not explained how Huffman managed to free one hand from the handcuffs while inside the patrol unit. Police have not said whether the handcuffs malfunctioned or whether officers believe they had been secured in an improper manner.
The Dallas Police Department said the investigation remains ongoing. Officials are expected to review body camera footage, patrol car video, and statements from officers involved in the confrontation.
Police have not announced whether any internal review involving officer conduct has been opened. Authorities also have not released additional footage from the interstate struggle.
The case continues to draw attention as investigators work to determine how a suspect in custody was able to take control of a patrol unit and drive onto one of Dallas’ major highways with an officer trapped inside the vehicle.