Hampton Driver Arrested After 115-Mph Police Chase

A Hampton police officer spotted a vehicle traveling about 115 mph on Route 101 at 3:12 a.m. on November 1, police said. The driver, identified as 26-year-old Hampton resident Alexander Hyatt, continued driving when the officer attempted a traffic stop, then turned north onto Ocean Boulevard.

The pursuit ended near Rocky Bend when Hyatt’s vehicle struck a curb. Police said Hyatt got out but would not follow officers’ commands. He returned to the vehicle and tried to drive away, but it became disabled after a short distance. Hyatt then ran from the vehicle and was arrested after officers pursued him on foot.

Hyatt faces charges that include driving under the influence with aggravating factors, another count of driving under the influence, dangerous driving, reckless behavior, carrying an unsealed alcoholic drink, disobeying an officer and resisting arrest. Medical staff examined him at a nearby hospital; after he was cleared, officials transferred him to Rockingham County Jail, where he remains in custody pending detention proceedings.

Authorities reported no significant injuries, and the only property damage involved the car Hyatt had been driving. Hampton Police Chief Alex Reno said impaired driving combined with excessive speed increases risks to people on the road. Hyatt is scheduled to be arraigned on November 2 at 11 a.m. The investigation is ongoing.