After a chase of about 45 minutes that reached speeds of up to 140 mph, the North Carolina Highway Patrol took a driver into custody along Interstate 95 South.
Shaheem Stephenson, 20, of Hertford County was behind the wheel of Chevy Camaro as it sped south through Johnston County, causing at least two crashes and damaging five vehicles, according to the State Highway Patrol.
Other WRAL Top Stories
Authorities said that Stephenson was racing another Camaro, and when they attempted to stop the two cars, Stephenson continued and a pursuit was initiated.
Stephenson's Camaro blew a tire near Exit 73, and he guided it onto the shoulder near Dunn. Sky 5 was overhead to see Stephenson get out of the car and lay on the ground as troopers approached with guns drawn.
A female passenger also got out of the Camaro. Troopers first handcuffed them both, but later said the woman would not be charged.
Watch the high-speed chase: 120-mph chase on I-95 in Johnston County
Backups for miles in Johnston County
Traffic was backed up through Friday afternoon at Stoney Run Drive and I-95 with drivers trying to access the highway as troopers investigated the aftermath.
Canadian visitor witness to chase on I-95
A traveler headed from Montreal to Florida was among those whose cars were damaged as Stephenson tried to evade capture. The traveler, who didn't want to give his name, told troopers that he was making his first visit to the United States.
After the Camaro pulled over, he tried to approach Stephenson, but troopers quickly warned him away.
Chase leaves miles-long investigation scene
With five vehicles damaged in two collisions, the investigation spread along the I-95 access road near Dunn, with multiple law enforcement vehicles blocking the road and troopers walking around the scene.
Troopers said the Camaro hit a dark car, a silver SUV and a Highway Patrol vehicle. The dark car ended up in a watery ditch with visible damage.
Both a trooper and the driver of the dark car were taken to a hospital for evaluation.
In a separate crash, the Camaro hit a minivan.
Chase suspect has history of speeding charges
Stephenson faces a dozen charges in Nash and Harnett counties, including reckless driving, driving with a revoked license and racing. He was held on $75,000 bond.
A search of his criminal record shows charges of speeding, reckless driving and driving without a license in Bertie County on Oct. 25, 2025 and another speeding charge, in which he was driving a different vehicle, in Pitt County on Oct. 9, 2025.