WATCH: Largo murder suspect leads police on multi-county chase

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) — A Largo man who fled officials on I-75, leading them on a multi-county pursuit on Sunday afternoon has been arrested.

According to the Florida Highway Patrol, Travis Lee Craig, 28, led troopers and Tampa police through five counties before he hopped out of his car and tried fleeing into a wooded area on the side of the highway.

An arrest report revealed Craig was fleeing from a traffic stop and was a murder suspect. Troopers began pursuing his Dodge Challenger on northbound I-75, beginning at mile marker 274.

Craig eventually lost control of his vehicle and drove off the side of the road near a tree line.. That’s when he got out of the car and ran into the wooded area.

Troopers said as Craig was running, he tried to take his shirt off before saying he was drunk and that’s why he ran. He was then arrested.

During a search of his vehicle, officials found a red handgun in the passenger side floorboard, containing 13 9mm rounds.

“The teamwork displayed is a small sample size of the ongoing collaboration between The Florida Highway Patrol, Tampa Police Department, and other local law enforcement agencies,” FHP said. “It exemplifies a strong and effective partnership, showcasing the benefits of our joint efforts keeping Florida safe and secure.”

Craig was taken to the Sumter County jail on charges including reckless driving, fleeing with disregard for safety to others, DUI, and possession of ammo by a convicted Florida felon.

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