Search called off for suspect who fled GSP traffic stop in Cornelia

CORNELIA, Ga. — Authorities have called off the search for a man who fled into the woods after leading a Georgia State Patrol trooper on a pursuit through Cornelia Friday afternoon.

The incident began around 3:03 p.m. Sept. 11 when a trooper parked near the intersection of GA 105 and J. Warren Road spotted a southbound Dodge truck with dark-tinted windows, according to GSP.

The trooper attempted to stop the truck for a window-tint violation. The driver initially slowed as if he intended to pull over, then accelerated, drove onto the grassy shoulder, and passed another vehicle on the right, initiating a pursuit.

The pursuit continued onto Walnut Street and Lakey Lane behind the candle factory in Cornelia, where the driver stopped at a residence later identified as the registered owner’s address. The suspect exited the truck and fled into the woods.

Troopers pursued him on foot but lost sight of him.

Multiple agencies join search

The Habersham County Sheriff’s Office, Cornelia Police Department, Baldwin Police Department and Georgia Department of Natural Resources joined the search. A tracking dog also assisted.

Authorities searched for more than two hours in the area around Chase Road, Camp Creek Road and Demorest-Mt. Airy Highway.

“The individual has not been located, but the track is being called at this time,” Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Rob Moore said shortly before 6 p.m.

Authorities later identified the man and said he was driving with a suspended license. They suspect someone in the area may have picked him up while he was fleeing. Within hours of the manhunt, the State Patrol was seeking warrants for the man’s arrest. Authorities have not released his name.