Helicopter helps track motorcyclist during high-speed chase across Lincoln, patrol says

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) – A man was arrested Friday after a high-speed pursuit that ended in Lincoln, the Nebraska State Patrol says.

At about 10:55 p.m. Thursday, a trooper tried to stop Tyler Yates, 28, for speeding on a motorcycle on Highway 77 near Beatrice.

Yates refused to stop and continued south, the patrol said.  After reaching Beatrice, Yates turned and sped north.

Yates’ speed varied between 40 and 120 mph.  He also sometimes drove into oncoming traffic on Highway 77, according to the patrol.

As Yates reached Lincoln, a Nebraska State Patrol helicopter began tracking his location.

The patrol said the helicopter followed Yates as he went through the Haymarket and over a pedestrian bridge before driving on streets and trails “for some time.”

Shortly after midnight, Yates stopped near Antelope Park on the Billy Wolff Trail, where he was taken into custody.

Troopers then discovered that the motorcycle was stolen.

Yates was arrested on suspicion of several charges, including theft by receiving stolen property of more than $5,000 and flight to avoid arrest.

He also had an outstanding warrant.  Yates was lodged in the Lancaster County Jail.