NEWS RELEASE
DATE & TIME: 01-06-2026/1441hrs
LOCATION: US Hwy 77 & Lilac Rd to US Hwy 77 & Sage Rd
OFFENSE: Willful Reckless Driving, Operating a Motor Vehicle to Avoid Arrest, Criminal Mischief, and Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident
CASE #: 2026-0068
DETAILS:
On 01-06-2026 at approximately 1441 hrs. Gage County Deputies were dispatched to a vehicle driving recklessly on Hwy 77 near Lilac Rd. The vehicle was swerving into the oncoming lanes forcing other vehicles off the roadway and then striking a mailbox north of Olive Rd. Deputies caught up to the vehicle on Hwy 77 near Broad St outside of Blue Springs. The deputies observed the vehicle swerving from lane to lane and attempted to stop the vehicle. The driver of the vehicle later identified as 46-year-old Christopher Packett of Beatrice refused to stop the vehicle. The pursuit continued from Hwy 77 near Broad St to Hwy 77 and Sage Rd south of Wymore. During the pursuit the driver swerved and forced vehicles off the roadway to avoid collisions. The pursuit ended when the vehicle went off the roadway on the right and spun out. The driver was then taken into custody and taken to the Gage Count Detention Center.
Sheriff Millard “Gus” Gustafson #903
Deputy Jacob Beville #9035
Deputy John Chavez #9036
Investigator Matt Ernst #90315