PD chase ends in Historic District

A Biloxi man remains in custody after leading Philadelphia Police on a high-speed chase that ended in the Historic District Thursday evening.

William M. Hardy, 64, of Biloxi was arrested at approximately 6:15 p.m. June 24 and charged with felony fleeing, two counts of simple assault of a police officer, resisting arrest, two counts of disorderly conduct, open container and possession of paraphernalia.

Records show he has since picked up eight more misdemeanor charges and traffic violations including littering, driving while license revoked, no insurance, tag expired, public drunk, DUI and a seatbelt violation.

The pursuit began at the intersection of Holland Avenue and St. Francis Drive when an officer attempted a traffic stop, said Philadelphia Police Det. Bobby Pattillo.

Hardy fled east and then went north eventually on State Avenue where he emerged onto Holland from Welch headed south.

Hardy then took a hard right on Rose Street and went north again on Poplar Avenue where he was stopped near Watkins Street.

“The officer attempted to make a traffic stop and initiated his blue lights when the suspect began driving at a high rate of speed and swerving all over the roadway,” Pattillo said.

The chase ended on Poplar when Hardy was hemmed in by pursuing police units.

At the scene, a pack of Marlboro Red cigarettes and a lighter littered the street as Hardy was handcuffed on the pavement receiving medical care. A six-pack of beer could be seen on a patrol car.

The suspect was transported to Neshoba General but was released and is currently at the Winston-Choctaw Correctional Facility in Louisville, Pattillo said.