Press Release

ROCHESTER — On Aug. 24, at approximately 3 a.m. deputies with the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop with a black 2001 Chevrolet Silverado that did not have a visible license plate and just hit a curb in the area of East 9th Street and Wabash Avenue, Rochester.

The vehicle failed to yield to the deputies. After a short pursuit, the vehicle crashed in front of 1723 Mitchell Drive, Rochester, striking a gazebo and a pier. The vehicle came to a rest in Lake Manitou.

A juvenile passenger, age 17, surrendered immediately and complied with officer commands. The driver, Hunter Meeks, 18, Mentone, disregarded officers commands and attempted to swim away before surrendering. Hunter was taken into custody without further incident before being transported for medical treatment. The juvenile was temporarily detained and later released to family.

Alcohol and speed are both contributing factors in the accident. Airbags did deploy, but it is believed seatbelts were not worn at the time.

Assisting the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office on scene was Rochester Police Department, Akron Police Department, Rochester Fire Department and Lutheran EMS.