Sheriff Chases Motorcyclist Over Three Counties

Police chased motorcyclist William Jason Morris Tuesday over three counties before crashing into and capturing him in Catawba County, law enforcement officials said. WSOC-TV Motorcycle Chase Motorcyclist William Jason Morris

The chase started along Highway 18 in Morganton. Burke County Sheriff John T. McDevitt said he spotted Morris traveling at a high rate of speed and started the persuit.

McDevitt and Morris were weaving in and out of traffic for several miles, at times reaching speeds of 130 mph, before McDevitt accidentally crashed his vehicle into the motorcycle on Highway 10, according to police.

McDevitt said Morris then got up and tried to make a run for it.

McDevitt said he, along with several other deputies, chased down Morris and sprayed him with pepper spray.

"I was going so fast I couldn't stop. I hit him. I just knocked him off the bike. He took off running. [We] ran him down. I had to fight him when I caught him, pepper-sprayed him. It took a couple of five minutes or so to subdue him," said McDevitt. VIDEO: Sheriff Chases Motorcyclist Over Three Counties

The Highway Patrol said Morris faces a number of charges.

State Troopers are investigating the scene.