High-speed chase ends with one arrested after alleged property damage in Lee Co.

LEE Co., Ga. – On August 30, 2025, at approximately 11:50 p.m., the Leesburg Police Department received a report of criminal damage to property on Magnolia Court in Leesburg, where a suspect allegedly forced entry into his girlfriend’s residence before fleeing the scene in a black Honda Accord. The suspect was identified as 25-year-old Ramaill THOMAS of Albany, GA. This information was passed to Lee County deputies over the radio, and they immediately began searching the area for the suspect vehicle.

Minutes later, at approximately 11:57 p.m., Corporal Hughes observed a vehicle matching the description traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 19 South near Century Road. The vehicle was confirmed to be registered to THOMAS. Corporal Hughes attempted a traffic stop, but the driver refused to comply and a pursuit ensued. Corporal Hughes and Deputy Vick pursued the vehicle as the driver fled towards Albany.

The suspect led deputies southbound on U.S. Highway 19 at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour, continuing into Dougherty County and the City of Albany. The driver disregarded multiple traffic control devices, weaved in and out of lanes, and used the center turn lane to pass vehicles at dangerous speeds, creating a significant risk to the public.

The pursuit continued through Albany city streets, where the suspect failed to stop at multiple stop signs and red lights. The vehicle eventually came to a stop after colliding with a curb in the 600 block of West Third Avenue. The driver, later identified as Ramaill THOMAS, exited the vehicle while it was still in motion and attempted to flee on foot but not before, he fell flat on his face. Turns out, jumping out of a moving vehicle requires a level of coordination not currently possessed by Mr. THOMAS. Deputies quickly apprehended him after a short foot pursuit.

Georgia State Patrol responded to work the crash investigation.

THOMAS was transported to the Lee County Jail for processing and detention.

THOMAS was charged with:

• Fleeing and attempting to elude (FELONY) (O.C.G.A. 40-6-395)

• Brake light violation (O.C.G.A. 40-8-25)

• Improper lane change (2 counts, O.C.G.A. 40-6-123)

• Failure to maintain lane (2 counts, O.C.G.A. 40-6-48)

• Obstruction (O.C.G.A. 16-10-24)

• Reckless driving (O.C.G.A. 40-6-390)

THOMAS was also charged with Criminal Damage to Property in the 2nd Degree by the Leesburg Police Department, as well as DUI and a seatbelt violation by the Georgia State Patrol.

Sheriff Rachals commends the quick response and coordination of deputies and thanks the Leesburg Police Department and Georgia State Patrol for their assistance.

The Lee County Sheriff’s Office remains committed to keeping our community safe through proactive patrols, partnerships with surrounding agencies, and the swift enforcement of Georgia law.

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