This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

A 50-mile freeway chase ended with popping tires, a vehicle fire and a 34-year-old Salt Lake City woman's arrest in Utah County Tuesday morning.

Utah County Sheriff's Sgt. Spencer Cannon said the incident began about 7:15 a.m. when a detective was driving south on Interstate 15 in Orem and he saw a speeding car coming up from behind. When the detective increased his own speed to 90 mph, the female driver still caught up and passed him.

The lawman turned on his emergency lights and siren and the chase ensued, reaching speeds of 110 mph — but the suspect vehicle still was pulling away in her Toyota.

Another police officer spotted the vehicle and followed, and then a third squad car joined the chase near the Payson Main Street exit.

Spike strips were deployed near Mona, blowing out two tires, but the suspect continued to drive on past Nephi at 85 mph, where her car caught fire at mile post 222. She ditched the car and attempted to flee on foot, but was quickly taken into custody by pursuing deputies.

Cannon said the woman was arrested on suspicion of felony evading and numerous moving violations. Deputies also were investigating possible intoxication and mental health issues, Cannon said.

Why the woman fled police remained a mystery. Other than confirming her identity, she refused to speak with law officers, Cannon said.

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