News Summary
A chaotic police chase in Birmingham on February 13, 2025, involved Raymond Elston Harris Jr., who evaded arrest after crashing vehicles and stealing a car. The pursuit involved multiple law enforcement agencies and ended with his apprehension. Harris, who has outstanding warrants, now faces numerous new charges, intensifying the focus on his previous criminal behavior.
Breaking News from Birmingham
Birmingham was the scene of a dramatic police chase that unfolded on February 13, 2025, involving a 30-year-old man named Raymond Elston Harris Jr. The wild escapade sparked alarm across the city as officers scrambled to catch the suspect during a chaotic series of events.
A Chase That Shook the City
The action began when authorities located Harris in the 1200 block of Bankhead Highway around 1:30 p.m. What should have been a routine apprehension quickly escalated when Harris struck a marked Birmingham police patrol vehicle in a reckless bid to escape. Rather than surrendering, he hit the gas and took off, leading officers on an intense chase that zigzagged through Birmingham.
Collision Course
During the pursuit, things took a dangerous turn as Harris collided with a passing motorist, causing damage to their vehicle’s two tires. Rather than stopping to help, or even reflecting on the potential consequences of his actions, Harris opted for a more desperate move: he abandoned his damaged vehicle and stole a Toyota Corolla from another unsuspecting driver. The chase was still on, and Harris continued towards west Birmingham, determined to evade the authorities.
More Than Just a High-Speed Chase
As Harris sped away in the stolen Corolla, the situation grew even more concerning when he struck a second vehicle, resulting in minor injuries for the other driver. This harrowing pursuit was not just a game of cat-and-mouse; it involved dozens of officers who worked tirelessly to bring Harris to justice. In an added touch of intensity, Jefferson County’s Star 1 helicopter was deployed, along with sheriff’s deputies, all joining forces in a dramatic aerial and ground operation.
The End of the Line
The chase finally came to a halt when Harris was apprehended at Avenue R and 32nd Street in Ensley by the Crime Reduction Team and the Special Enforcement Team. However, the drama didn’t end there. Once in custody, it became clear that Harris had a laundry list of outstanding warrants, including serious charges such as attempted murder and three counts of first-degree robbery. With such a serious background, it’s shocking that he found himself in this situation once again.
New Charges Stack Up
Following this latest escapade, Harris now faces a slew of new charges. These include felony attempting to elude, first-degree criminal mischief, and leaving the scene of an accident with injuries. Not to mention, the third-degree robbery charge is tied directly to the theft of the Corolla, though thankfully, no weapon was used during that incident. However, Harris is also expected to face additional federal charges and two state charges related to a previous incident of discharging a firearm into a dwelling, illustrating a troubling pattern of behavior.
Behind Bars
Currently, Harris is being held without bond in the Jefferson County Jail, as authorities work to navigate the complex situation of his many offenses. With a checkered past and mounting legal challenges ahead, it remains to be seen how this case will unfold in the coming weeks. Birmingham, a city often characterized by its vibrant spirit, now finds itself grappling with the repercussions of Harris’s reckless actions.
What Comes Next?
As always, the Birmingham community will be watching closely as the judicial system takes its course. The heroic efforts of the law enforcement officers have been recognized, and it casts a spotlight on the ongoing challenges they face in maintaining public safety. Harris’s story serves as a stark reminder of the chaotic surprises that can unfold in the blink of an eye.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
18-Year-Old Student Charged in Valentine’s Day School Shooting Plot
Community in Mourning After Shooting in Birmingham
Birmingham Police Investigate Shooter in Black Nissan
Birmingham Patrol Officers: Essential to Local Law Enforcement
Birmingham Shocker: Teen Trio Nabbed for Carjacking!
Birmingham Man Charged with Capital Murder in Shooting
Birmingham City Schools Board Approves Relocation Project
Birmingham Schools on Alert: Jackson-Olin High Lockdown
Birmingham Fire and Rescue Expands Operations Amid Fire Incidents
Birmingham’s Major Makeover Planned for 2025
Additional Resources
- AL.com: Wild Chase Ends with Birmingham Police Car Struck
- Wikipedia: Police chase
- CBS42: Robbery Suspect Arrested After Police Chase in Birmingham
- Google Search: Police Chase Birmingham
- ABC3340: Robbery Suspect Arrested After Chase in Birmingham
- Google Scholar: Police Chase Birmingham
- WBRC: Attempted Murder Suspect Arrested After Chase in Birmingham
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Police chases
Author: STAFF HERE BIRMINGHAM WRITER
The BIRMINGHAM STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBirmingham.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Birmingham, Jefferson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Sidewalk Film Festival, Sloss Music & Arts Festival, Magic City Classic, and civil rights commemorations. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Birmingham Business Alliance and the Birmingham Civil Rights Institute, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as UAB Medicine, Regions Bank, and Encompass Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREHuntsville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Alabama's dynamic landscape.
