Two Men Arrested After Dramatic Police Chase and Hiding Stunt in Downtown Covington
Two men are in custody following a high-stakes police chase through Downtown Covington, Tennessee, that ended with one suspect hiding inside a barber shop chair. The incident unfolded this Thursday, prompting a swift response from Covington police officers who apprehended both suspects after a tense manhunt.
The situation began when a Covington police officer attempted to stop a vehicle on Highway 51 near Church Street for a broken brake light. Instead of complying, the driver fled the scene, triggering a chase. During the stop, the passenger unexpectedly exited the vehicle carrying a rifle and fled on foot down West Pleasant Street.
Suspect Hides in Barber Chair Pretending to Wait for Haircut
In a surprising twist, the fleeing passenger, later identified as 24-year-old Damian Lattimore, sought refuge inside 1776 Barbershop Parlor. Witnesses and officers found Lattimore sitting calmly in one of the barber chairs, feigning the demeanor of a customer waiting for a haircut.
Police rapidly surrounded the barbershop and arrested Lattimore without further incident. Authorities recovered the pink rifle nearby on the grass close to the local water treatment facility. Lattimore now faces charges including evading arrest, tampering with evidence, and reckless endangerment. He is awaiting a bond hearing.
Driver Captured After Fleeing in Vehicle
While this diversion unfolded, the vehicle’s driver, identified as 21-year-old Vertavious Barbee, continued fleeing. His escape ended when officers with Ripley police tracked and arrested him on Skyline Drive.
Barbee is charged with evading arrest and violating light laws. His bond is set at $15,000.
Why This Matters Now
This bold attempt to elude police and the unusual hiding tactic inside a public barber shop highlight the lengths some suspects will go to avoid capture. The event unfolded quickly, showcasing effective law enforcement coordination between Covington and Ripley police forces.
For Alaska and nationwide readers, incidents like this serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of law enforcement encounters and the continuous efforts of officers to maintain public safety even in complex situations.
What’s Next
Lattimore’s bond hearing date remains pending, while Barbee remains in custody with bond conditions. Police continue to investigate the details surrounding the charges, including how the rifle played a role in the incident.
Covington Police Department confirmed all charges and arrests in a statement Thursday, underscoring their commitment to public safety in Tennessee communities.
The Alaska Insider will monitor developments as the case proceeds through the court system. Stay tuned for updates on this and other breaking news affecting communities across the U.S.
