The pursuit of a suspect with a gun temporarily shut down train traffic in Wildwood.
Ja’Quan Ta’vioone Beard, 22, was riding a bicycle shortly before 11 p.m. Saturday in the area of U.S. 301 at Denham Street when an officer noticed the bicycle did not have proper lighting, according to an arrest report from the Wildwood Police Department. The officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but Beard tried to outrun the officer. A second officer joined in the pursuit and tackled Beard, who made his way to the downtown railroad tracks.
When the officer attempted to handcuff Beard, he began reaching for his waistline. A struggle ensued and Beard ignored multiple commands from the officer. Beard continued reaching for his waistband. Because the struggle was taking place on the railroad tracks, a second officer contacted dispatch and called for an alert to CSX Transportation, asking that all trains and railroad activity be halted for safety reasons.
Beard was found to be in possession of a .38-caliber weapon fully loaded with jacketed hollow point bullets. He was also in possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.
Beard was arrested on charges of fleeing law enforcement, resisting arrest, drug possession and a weapon offense. He was booked at the Sumter County Detention Center and released after posting $14,500 bond.