Salina Police Arrest 19-Year-Old Following Downtown Traffic Stop

Salina Police arrested a 19-year-old driver following a traffic stop in the downtown area on the evening of the 17th.

According to police, an officer observed a 1994 black BMW commit a traffic violation at the Pump Mart on North Ninth Street at approximately 8:30 p.m. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle did not immediately comply and committed an additional traffic violation before stopping in the 1000 block of North Tenth Street, about one block from the original location. Police stated that a vehicle pursuit was not initiated because the driver stopped shortly after the attempt to stop the vehicle.

After the vehicle came to a stop, both the driver and a passenger exited the car. The officer pursued the driver on foot and detained him in the 1000 block of North Tenth Street. The driver was identified as Elijah Schmidt, 19, of Salina, and was taken into custody without incident.

Police reported Schmidt was cited or charged with multiple offenses, including unsafe turning or stopping, possession of alcohol by a person under 21, violation of driver license restrictions, no proof of insurance, failure to yield from a private road or drive, and interference with law enforcement related to fleeing from officers. Officers also reported locating tobacco products in Schmidt’s possession, which is prohibited under state law for individuals under 21.

The passenger fled the scene after exiting the vehicle. Police stated the passenger has been identified and officers are actively attempting to locate and apprehend him.

Alcohol was confirmed to be inside the vehicle. No injuries were reported. The investigation remains ongoing as officers work to locate the passenger and complete follow-up on the listed charges.