High-Speed Chase Across Bayway Ends in Felony Charges for Prichard Woman

Daphne, AL (BuzzReport) – A shoplifting call escalated into a dangerous pursuit Monday night after a Prichard woman allegedly fled police following a grocery store theft in Daphne.

Authorities report that Jalea Washington is facing multiple felony charges, including fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer and two counts of third-degree theft of property. The incident began at a Daphne Publix, where Washington is accused of stealing dozens of bottles of wine along with packages of lamb chops before leaving the store.

When officers attempted to stop her vehicle, the situation quickly intensified. Police say Washington sped away, leading officers on a high-speed chase across the Bayway. During the pursuit, speeds reportedly reached as high as 120 miles per hour, creating a serious threat to other motorists traveling through the area.

The chase came to an end after Washington crashed her vehicle. A subsequent search led officers to recover 28 bottles of wine and three packages of lamb chops believed to have been stolen from the store. Police confirmed that all recovered items were returned to the Publix.

No further injuries were reported, but investigators say the case remains under active review as authorities continue to examine the circumstances surrounding the chase and crash.