Officer taken for a ride when trying to prevent the driver from getting back into his vehicle
By: -----
Villa Rica, GA - What started as a routine traffic stop turned into a harrowing struggle early Tuesday morning when a driver sped off with a Villa Rica police officer partially inside his vehicle.
Officer V. Hamilton pulled over a vehicle around 2:30 a.m. for an equipment violation, according to authorities. The driver, identified as 49-year-old Bryan Myers of Temple, stepped out of the car and began arguing with Hamilton, according to dash camera provided by police. When the driver attempted to get back into the vehicle despite being instructed to remain outside, a physical confrontation ensued.
Myers ultimately made it into the driver’s seat and took off, reaching speeds of approximately 60 mph while Hamilton was left clinging to the moving vehicle. Dash camera video shows the moment the SUV pulls off with Hamilton hanging onto the door, leaving the officer's patrol car behind.
Officials said Myers repeatedly kicked at the officer’s leg to prevent her from applying the brake, even attempting to shove her out of the car. Despite the ordeal, Officer Hamilton managed to gain control and bring the vehicle to a stop.
But the struggle didn’t end there. Myers allegedly ran off into nearby woods after, reportedly dropping a pistol from his waistband as he ran. He eventually surrendered and was taken into custody. Police later discovered ecstasy pills in his possession.
Myers now faces multiple felony and misdemeanor charges, including assault on a peace officer, possession of a controlled substance, illegal firearm possession and DUI.
Authorities commended Officer Hamilton’s composure in what they described as an “unbelievably dangerous situation.”