OKALOOSA COUNTY, Fla. — A Shalimar man accused in a hit and run involving a pedestrian is facing charges from multiple agencies after reportedly fleeing from deputies and striking a sign near an Eglin Air Force Base checkpoint, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office (OCSO) announced.
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According to the OCSO, the incident began on Wednesday around noon, when deputies responded to a reported hit-and-run in the area of 916 Beal Parkway. Initial reports indicated the pedestrian had significant injuries.
Deputies soon spotted a car with major hood and windshield damage and smoke coming from the engine. The driver, identified as George Henry Harchar, 35, reportedly failed to stop when a traffic stop was attempted, according to the agency.
According to the OCSO, Mr Harchar continued driving and came to a stop near the Air Force Armament Museum. As deputies approached, he reportedly pulled away again toward Eglin Air Force Base and drove into a lane-closure sign at the west gate checkpoint area.
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The agency said Harchar exited the vehicle and refused commands to show his hands while stepping toward deputies. He was tased and detained.
The OCSO charged Mr Harchar with fleeing and eluding with lights and sirens activated and resisting an officer without violence. Additional charges related to the alleged hit-and-run will be issued by the Florida Highway Patrol, along with charges from Eglin.
Mr Harchar is being held in the Okaloosa County Jail in Crestview.
Sheriff Eric Aden praised the teamwork of the responding agencies. The OCSO said he commended the interagency cooperation and effective response of all involved.
