Chase in southwest Nebraska ends after crash near McCook

LINCOLN, Neb. (KLKN) — A man was taken into custody Thursday after police say he led authorities on a chase through a southwest Nebraska town.

Joel Rasmussen, 46, was arrested on suspicion of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, flight to avoid arrest, driving without a license and many other charges.

According to the McCook Police Department, Rasmussen was driving erratically on B Street, which is the main thoroughfare in McCook.

Officers tried to pull Rasmussen over, but police said he refused, and a chase ensued.

The chase continued through McCook before Rasmussen turned north on Highway 83, heading out of town.

Officers continued to chase Rasmussen while the Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office and the Nebraska State Patrol got involved.

According to the police department, at one point, a deputy’s vehicle and Rasmussen’s vehicle crashed into each other.

The chase ended on Highway 83 near Red Willow Reservoir State Recreation Area.

Rasmussen was booked in the Red Willow County Jail.