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Suspect Arrested Following Two State Chase
By: Mike Stiles - Tuesday, June 10, 2025

Thomas Baxla (photo courtesy of Steuben County Jail)

(COLDWATER) – A suspect is in custody after leading authorities on a two state chase.

Branch County Undersheriff Jason Bingaman says that deputies attempted to stop a motorcycle at 1:16 AM Saturday on I-69 that was traveling at 113 MPH. The driver refused to stop and lead Branch County deputies across the State Line. The Steuben County Sheriff’s Office and the Indiana State Police joined the pursuit.

The motorcycle got off of I-69, disregarding a stop sign at the exit and then got back on the highway and continued heading south. At the next exit, the driver failed to negotiate a curve and drove into the grass, coming to a stop.

The driver, identified as 21 year old Thomas Baxla, was taken into custody. A female passenger was released at the scene.

Baxla is being held in the Steuben County Jail. He is facing charges in Steuben County of resisting law enforcement with a vehicle and for having an outstanding warrant.

The Branch County Prosecutor’s Office reviewed a report of the incident and issued a charge of third degree fleeing and eluding.

Baxla is waiting to be extradited back to Branch County.



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