Two Arrested Following Police Chase and Multi-Vehicle Crash in Jefferson County

Jefferson Co., Mo. (KFMO) - Two men face multiple charges after a police pursuit led to a multi-vehicle crash in Jefferson County on Monday afternoon, December 16, 2024.

Shortly before 1 p.m., deputies identified Mark E. Altman of Imperial driving a silver 2014 Dodge Ram pickup near Old Sugar Creek Road and Highway 30. Aware of an active felony warrant for Altman, a deputy attempted a traffic stop by activating emergency lights and sirens. Altman allegedly sped off, driving erratically to evade capture.

The pursuit continued on eastbound Highway 30 near Valley Dell, where the Dodge Ram veered off the roadway and then back onto it, striking several vehicles before coming to a stop.

Altman and a passenger, Corey C. Hargrave, of St. Louis, were arrested at the scene. There were no reports of serious injuries from the crash.

During a search of the pickup, deputies discovered two 9mm firearms. Investigators later determined the vehicle was reported stolen from St. Louis County.

Altman faces charges including one count of Aggravated Fleeing a Stop or Detention under Missouri's newly enacted “Valentine’s Law,” which enhances penalties for fleeing traffic stops, and two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. He is being held at the Jefferson County Jail on a $100,000 cash-only bond.

Hargrave is charged with two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Firearm. His bond is set at $30,000 cash-only.

Both suspects are convicted felons prohibited from owning or possessing firearms. The investigation remains ongoing.