EAGAN, Minn. (WCCO) – A man police say was suicidal when he led officers on a chase through Eagan has been charged with fleeing police.
The police chase began on Tuesday afternoon last week 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 now faces a felony charge of fleeing police officers, which carries a maximum penalty of 3 years in prison and a $5,000 fine upon conviction.
