Walla Walla man busted after dangerous high-speed chase in Union County
By Joe Hathaway on Tuesday, February 6th, 2024 in Columbia Basin News More Top Stories Northeastern Oregon News
UNION COUNTY — A Walla Walla, Washington man faces a slew of felony charges after leading police on a high-speed chase through Union County.
The chase occurred during the afternoon of Saturday, February 3. According to Oregon State Police, a trooper saw a small truck driving recklessly within city limits of Imbler. As the trooper tried to attempt a traffic stop, the vehicle sped off at high speeds.
The trooper was joined by other law enforcement officers as the suspect led them on a dangerous chase on Highway 82 through Island City and La Grande. Officers deployed spike strips, which the suspect hit, leading to him crashing near the Flying J outside of La Grande.
The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Cody Lee Kessler from Walla Walla, was taken by helicopter out of state due to his injuries from the crash.
Kessler now faces charges of DUII, Attempt to Elude, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Reckless Driving and Attempt to Elude (Foot).
Photo provided by witness Justin Hoyt
