by A Lamar man is in custody after a dangerous, nine-mile high-speed chase through Centre County early Tuesday morning. He reportedly refused DUI testing and demanded to be shot by police following his arrest, authorities said.
What Happened
On May 13, 2025, around 6:15 a.m., Pennsylvania State Police observed a speeding vehicle on State Route 150 (Benner Pike) in College Township.
The suspect, later identified as William Kenneth Smith, 42, allegedly ignored police lights, fled at speeds over 85 mph, and endangered other drivers before being stopped with spike strips.
Key Details
- Suspect: William Kenneth Smith, 42, of Lamar, PA.
- Incident: High-speed police pursuit over 9 miles.
- Speed: Exceeded 85 mph.
- Route: College Township → Rock Road → Buffalo Run Road → State Route 550.
- Conclusion: Vehicle stopped using spike strips near Bernel Road.
- Post-stop behavior: Smith exited his car and shouted at troopers to shoot him.
- Force used: Tasers deployed twice with little effect.
Police reported that Smith refused to follow commands, was not wearing a seatbelt, and continued resisting before finally complying.
Reactions or Statements
Troopers said they detected the odor of alcohol on Smith’s breath and noted his bloodshot, watery eyes.
According to the police affidavit:
“With what you would find in my blood, I would be better off refusing,” Smith told officers after denying a blood draw at Mount Nittany Medical Center.
Smith also admitted to taking valium and other medications the night before.
Investigation or What’s Next
Smith faces over 20 charges, including:
| Charge Type | Examples |
|---|---|
| Felonies | Fleeing/Eluding Police |
| Misdemeanors | DUI, Reckless Endangerment |
| Traffic Violations | Careless Driving, Stop Sign Violations |
He remains held without bail at Centre County Prison. A warrant from Union County related to DUI charges was also confirmed.
His preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 21, before Judge Kelley Gillette-Walker.
FAQs
Q: Who is the suspect?
A: William Kenneth Smith, 42, of Lamar, Pennsylvania.
Q: Where did the chase occur?
A: The pursuit covered several areas in Centre County, ending in Patton Township.
Q: Was anyone injured?
A: No injuries were reported, but Smith’s driving allegedly endangered others.
Q: Why was bail denied?
A: The court cited him as an “extreme public and personal safety risk.”
Q: Did Smith comply with DUI testing?
A: No, he refused all DUI-related tests and made incriminating statements.
Summary / Final Takeaway
William Kenneth Smith is facing serious charges after a high-speed chase in Centre County. His refusal to comply with police commands, DUI testing, and erratic behavior are central to the case.
Authorities are treating the incident as a severe threat to public safety, and Smith remains jailed without bail pending a May 21 court hearing.
