Categories: Breaking NewsCrimeIndependence, MONews

36-Year-Old Woman Arrested Following High-Speed Chase in Independence

News Summary

A woman from Kansas City led police on a dangerous high-speed chase with three children in her vehicle early Saturday morning. The incident started with a disturbance call and culminated in her arrest after reaching speeds of nearly 90 mph. Faces serious charges including child endangerment and driving under the influence. The community is shaken as they reflect on the dangers of such reckless behavior.

Independence, Missouri: A Wild Ride Through the Night

In a shocking turn of events early Saturday morning, a 36-year-old woman from Kansas City found herself at the center of a high-speed chase while driving with three children in her vehicle. Tanika L. Tatum is facing serious charges after her reckless behavior put multiple lives at risk, and the unfolding drama has left the Independence community reeling.

The Disturbance That Started It All

It all began around 12:05 a.m. on March 29 when local police received reports of a disturbance near 32nd and Sterling Ave. When officers arrived on the scene, they were met with a chaotic sight—Tatum was seen yelling inside her silver Ford Escape. It quickly became apparent that she was not in a sound state of mind.

The Chase is On!

As law enforcement tried to apprehend her, Tatum made a hasty attempt to flee, first driving through the grass before speeding south on Sterling Ave. What followed was a tense high-speed chase that was nothing short of hair-raising. Officers reported that Tatum reached speeds of nearly 90 mph in areas where the speed limit was just 35 mph.

This reckless pursuit came to an end on Raytown Rd. near 57th Terr when police used stop sticks to deflate her tires. Despite the units trying to pull her over, Tatum showed no signs of compliance throughout the chase, making for a nail-biting scene.

Serious Charges and Intoxication

Upon her capture, officers noticed several concerning signs that indicated Tatum was far from sober. She had watery, bloodshot eyes and struggled to maintain her balance. The most alarming discovery came when three young children were found in the backseat of her vehicle. These children, who were thankfully unharmed, were undoubtedly exposed to a dangerous situation.

Following her arrest, Tatum’s blood alcohol concentration (BAC) was tested at an alarming 0.136%, well above the legal limit. In addition to alcohol consumption, she also admitted to smoking marijuana prior to the harrowing incident.

Facing the Consequences

As a result of her reckless behavior, Tatum has been charged with three counts of endangering the welfare of a child, aggravated fleeing a stop, and driving while intoxicated. If found guilty, she could face a hefty punishment of up to 29 years in prison along with fines reaching $60,000.

Upcoming Court Dates

Tatum is currently being held on a $5,000 bond and has additional holds related to warrants from other jurisdictions, including Holt County, Cole County, and even Johnson County in Kansas. A bond review hearing is set for 1 p.m. on April 9, with a preliminary hearing scheduled for 10:30 a.m. on April 28.

Community Shock and Concern

The close call has sparked a wave of concern in the community as residents grapple with the implications of Tatum’s actions. The safety of children is a priority, and an incident like this serves as a sobering reminder of the potential hazards of intoxicated driving, especially when minors are involved.

For now, Tatum remains in custody, and the community watches closely as the legal proceedings unfold. While more information is awaited, everyone hopes that this serves as a pivotal lesson in responsibility and the importance of always prioritizing safety, particularly when it comes to the well-being of children.