Two arrested after long chase

A pair of Kalispell men are in jail after leading police on a two-county chase traveling more than 100 miles per hour Monday afternoon on U.S 2.

The 40-minute pursuit began in Kalispell and ended 15 miles into Lincoln County when spike strips finally stopped the speeding vehicle.

Joshua Hermann, 23, was arrested on charges of burglary, criminal endangerment, parole violation and theft, and Joshua Rosalez, 29, was arrested on charges of burglary and theft.

The incident began earlier in the day when a gray 2006 Honda Civic was reported stolen from Mark Weed Auto Sales on U.S. 2 in Evergreen.

The Honda was spotted at approximately 3 p.m. heading north on Meridian Road, at which point the driver attempted to flee.

As the speed of the chase climbed, a call was made to Smith Valley School to keep the children inside until it passed.

Deputies reported driving at up to 110 miles per hour to keep up with the vehicle.

A helicopter also was used in the chase to keep track of the vehicle. Lincoln County deputies joined in when the vehicle crossed out of Flathead County.

On two occasions, the occupants threw debris from the vehicle.

Spike strips eventually were placed in front of the vehicle, causing three tires to blow. When the vehicle stopped, its occupants fled on foot before being caught within a short distance.

Flathead County Sheriff Chuck Curry said Hermann — the driver — and Rosalez may also be suspects in the theft of two other vehicles from Mark Weed Auto Sales over the course of the last week.

“There were a couple vehicles stolen from that lot and we are pursuing leads that may or may not link one or both of these suspects to other vehicle thefts recently,” Curry said.

“There is certainly also the possibility of some drug involvement with the individuals and that is being pursued as well.”

One of the vehicles stolen from the lot was located at a hotel on U.S. 2 West later that evening and reported to the Kalispell Police Department. The vehicle was turned over to Flathead County deputies and then returned to the dealership.

Reporter Jesse Davis may be reached at 758-4441 or by email at jdavis@dailyinterlake.com.