EAGAN, Minn. (WCCO) – Police have arrested a man they say was suicidal when he led officers on a police chase through Eagan and tried to jump from a bridge over the Mississippi River.
The police chase began at about 2:30 p.m. Tuesday after police were sent to check on 37-year-old Oudone Xiong’s welfare.
Police say Xiong has been on probation over first-degree criminal sexual conduct charges, and his probation officer said Xiong reported suicidal thoughts.
Officers caught up with Xiong’s vehicle near Krestwood and Duckwood Drive. Police say he then fled, running through traffic stops and driving at speeds of up to 90 miles per hour.
Xiong stopped his vehicle on the Interstate 35E bridge overlooking the Mississippi River and stood at the edge of the bridge, officers said, threatening to jump.
Negotiators were able to talk him down, and he was taken for evaluation at Regions Hospital. He’s currently being held at Ramsey County Jail and is expected to be charged with fleeing from police.
