Suspect in hit-and-run in Bay St. Louis captured in Pass Christian

What began as a suspected shoplifting case turned into a hit-and-run and felony pursuit from Bay St. Louis to Pass Christian on Thursday morning.

Police say a suspect, Phillip McLauren, driving a 2-door 2012 Chevy Silverado pickup left Rosetti’s Liquor Barrel on Thursday morning at a high rate of speed.

McLaurin refused Officers commands to exit his vehicle and struck an Officer next to his vehicle while fleeing, causing minor injuries

At least two motorcyclists were injured and the truck continued down Highway 90 with Bay St. Louis Police in pursuit, both visiting from Louisiana.

One of those motorcyclists were released, but the other was moved from Memorial to UMC for further treatment.

The suspect drove over the bridge and in to Pass Christian, where Pass police joined the chase, before the driver lost control, landing his vehicle in a pool at a home on North Street just before 11 a.m.

Assistant Chief Chris Williams said the house belonged to owners who live out of town and no one was at home when the crash occurred.

McLaurin was transported to an area hospital for minor injuries.

Hancock County Court Judge Trent Favre issued warrants for felony Fleeing and Eluding Causing Serious Bodily Injury, two (02) counts of felony Leaving the Scene of an Accident Causing Serious Bodily Injury, felony DUI Causing Serious Bodily Injury, felony Simple Assault on a Police Officer, misdemeanor Shoplifting, misdemeanor Leaving the Scene of an Accident with an Unattended Vehicle and set his total bond at $611,500.

Upon completion of medical treatment, McLaurin will be transported to the Hancock County Jail where he will be held in lieu of bond.