A 49‑year‑old man from Arnold, Missouri was arrested in Howell County on August 18 after a high‑speed pursuit that began on U.S. 60 and ended in Willow Springs, according to a Missouri State Highway Patrol probable cause statement.
Trooper B. Swink reported that he first observed a blue Acura traveling 81 mph in a 65‑mph zone, later accelerating to 112 mph as the trooper attempted a stop.
The driver, identified as William James Warfel, used a turnaround in Texas County and began driving eastbound, weaving through traffic and passing vehicles on the shoulder at speeds above 100 mph. The pursuit was terminated near the Business 60/63 exit, but the vehicle later became disabled at the Willow Springs Fire Department.
Warfel fled on foot but was taken into custody by Willow Springs Assistant Chief Ryan Boyle. A search of Warfel reportedly revealed a loaded Glock 17 with twelve 9mm rounds and acid tabs wrapped in foil, though a TruNarc test on the tabs was inconclusive.
A search of the vehicle uncovered suspected methamphetamine, 4‑Methylaminorex, and a capsule Warfel described as a “single use Fentanyl pill.” Troopers also located a large bucket of quarters believed to be connected to a theft investigation in West Plains; West Plains Police took custody of the coins.
Warfel was transported to the Howell County Jail at approximately 3:10 p.m. The Acura was towed for safekeeping.
