Botetourt Co. sheriff searches for man wanted in Arcadia after police chase

The Botetourt County Sheriff's Office is currently searching for a 36-year-old man in the Arcadia area of ​​Buchanan who was involved in a police chase on Thursday, June 27 (iStock)

BOTETOURT COUNTY, Va. (WFXR) — The Botetourt County Sheriff's Office is currently searching for a 36-year-old man in the Arcadia area of ​​Buchanan who was involved in a police pursuit on Thursday, June 27.

According to Sheriff Matt Ward, deputies with the Rockbridge County Sheriff's Department pursued a vehicle driven by William Hazelwood, 36, through the Parker's Gap area of ​​Botetourt County and eventually into the Arcadia area. At one point, Hazelwood allegedly left the driver's seat with a female passenger and fled on foot.

Sheriff Ward says the passenger was arrested on an outstanding Rockbridge County arrest warrant. However, Hazelwood has not been found at this time. He is wanted on a Felony Elude warrant and another outstanding misdemeanor warrant for driving with a suspended license.

There remains a heavy police presence in the North Creek section of the Arcadia area as law enforcement continues their search for Hazelwood.

While Sheriff Ward assures the public there is no indication of a threat to the community, he asks the public to stay out of the area while the search is underway.

The Botetourt County Sheriff's Office is asking for help from the public in Hazelwood. Sheriff Ward described him as a white man with short, curly red hair and extensive tattoos, including facial tattoos. Ward also says he may or may not wear glasses.

If you live in the area and see someone who matches the description, contact the Sheriff's Office E-911 Dispatch Center.

WFXR News will update this story as more information is released.