Police pursuit ends in crash, Joplin Police Felony charges filed

JOPLIN, Mo. (KOAM) — About 11:30 a.m. Wednesday Joplin Police attempted a traffic stop on a 2020 Volkswagen Jetta near the intersection of 7th and Jefferson Ave.

KOAM RELATED >> Live! Police pursuit ends in crash near Joplin Library, two in custody

Based on observations, the officers believed the driver was possibly intoxicated. After attempting the stop, the driver fled and a vehicle pursuit ensued. The suspect vehicle ran a stop light at 20th and Connecticut and crashed into another vehicle in the intersection, disabling both vehicles.

The driver of the other vehicle sustained minor injuries from the crash.

The driver of the suspect vehicle was identified as Dakota L. Bell , age 31 of Alba, Missouri. He is formally charged:

• Felony Fleeing —  Valentine's Law- aggravated fleeing a stop
• Felony DWI persistent
• Felony Possession Drug Paraphernalia

The female passenger was identified as Jessica L. Vankirk , age 31 of Webb City, Missouri. She was arrested on active felony probation violation warrants for drug related charges. Her warrants had a no bond restriction.

This is a breaking news story we will continue to follow. Watch for updates here on KOAM News Now, Joplin News First.