Three suspects escape into woods after pursuit in Dayton

The Liberty County Pct. 4 Constable’s Office is asking for the public’s help identifying three men who fled from deputies Wednesday afternoon, July 29, after investigators suspected they had been involved in a drug transaction in the Woodway Subdivision near Dayton.

According to the constable’s office, Pct. 4 narcotics investigators were conducting covert surveillance in the subdivision off FM 1409 on July 29 when they observed a white Chevrolet four-door passenger car, driven by a white male, meet with two white male pedestrians.

Investigators said observations made during the encounter led them to suspect a drug transaction was taking place. The two pedestrians entered the vehicle, which then left the area while investigators followed in an unmarked surveillance vehicle.

As the vehicle traveled toward the City of Dayton on FM 1409, Precinct 4 patrol deputies were called to intercept it.

Authorities said the suspects realized they were being followed and attempted to evade surveillance. When deputies attempted to stop the vehicle in Dayton, the driver fled, leading law enforcement on a pursuit that continued south on FM 1409.

The Dayton Police Department and the Liberty County Sheriff’s Office joined the pursuit.

According to investigators, the suspects eventually turned onto CR 442 before abandoning the vehicle in a heavily wooded federal hunting area at the dead end of the road. All three suspects fled into the woods on foot.

A large search operation followed, with the Mont Belvieu Police Department providing drone support and the Chambers County Sheriff’s Office deploying a K-9 unit.

Despite an extensive search, the suspects were not located. Investigators recovered the abandoned vehicle.

Authorities said no contraband was found inside the vehicle, and investigators were unable to immediately identify the occupants. The vehicle is being processed for evidence in an effort to determine the identities of those involved.

Although the vehicle’s registration did not reveal a local address, Pct. 4 narcotics investigators believe the suspects are residents of the FM 1409 area near Dayton.

Constable Robby Thornton is asking anyone who recognizes the vehicle or has information about the identities of the suspects to contact the Liberty County Pct. 4 Constable’s Office at 936-258-4711 or by email at robby.thornton@co.liberty.tx.us.

Authorities said all information provided will remain confidential.