High-Speed Chase in Craven County Ends in Arrest; Suspect Held on ICE Detainer

High-Speed Chase in Craven County Ends in Arrest; Suspect Held on ICE Detainer

June 19, 2025 | Craven County, NC — A man is now in custody and facing multiple charges following a reckless high-speed chase Thursday morning that spanned parts of U.S. Highway 70. Authorities say the suspect is also being held on an ICE Detainer, pending further immigration investigation.

The incident began around 10:45 a.m. on June 19, when members of the Craven County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) observed a Nissan Armada speeding and driving dangerously along U.S. 70. Sheriff Chip Hughes attempted to initiate a traffic stop, but the driver refused to pull over and instead fled westbound at high speed.

In a hazardous effort to escape, the suspect veered off the roadway, cutting through grass along the highway, then driving up the eastbound Cove City exit ramp before merging back onto the highway — endangering other motorists in the process.

The driver eventually abandoned the vehicle and attempted to escape on foot. However, members of the CCSO Criminal Interdiction Bureau pursued and arrested him without further incident.

The suspect has been identified as Jesus Anto Magana-Contreas. According to CCSO, he is facing several criminal charges related to the pursuit, and has also been placed under an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Detainer, which indicates possible immigration violations.

Multiple Charges and Federal Involvement

While specific charges have not yet been detailed, authorities confirm that Magana-Contreas will be facing numerous legal consequences. The ICE Detainer further signals that federal immigration officials are now involved in the case and could potentially take custody of the suspect after local proceedings conclude.

An ICE Detainer is typically issued when there is reason to believe that an individual is in the United States without legal documentation or has violated immigration laws. It allows local authorities to hold the individual for federal agents.

Sheriff Hughes praised his deputies for their swift response, stating, “The suspect’s reckless behavior posed a serious threat to the public. Fortunately, due to the diligence and coordination of our team, we were able to bring this incident to a safe conclusion.”

Investigation Remains Active

The investigation is ongoing, and officials have not yet confirmed whether any additional illegal items, such as drugs or firearms, were found during the arrest. More information about charges and court proceedings is expected to be released in the coming days.

Magana-Contreas remains in the Craven County jail as legal proceedings and federal review continue.

Anyone with additional information related to the incident is encouraged to contact the Craven County Sheriff’s Office or submit tips through local anonymous reporting services.

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