HARBESON, DE – A Harbeson man was taken into custody Saturday afternoon after leading Delaware State Police on a chase that ended with multiple felony drug and weapon charges.
The pursuit began around 2:00 p.m. after troopers were called to a business complex on Dozer Lane for reports of a man who appeared to be under the influence or in medical distress.
When troopers approached the vehicle, the suspect—identified as 36-year-old Ryan Doneker—fled the scene in a Honda CR-V, driving through a grass field before heading south on Indian Mission Road.
Key Points
- Delaware State Police arrested 36-year-old Ryan Doneker after a pursuit in Harbeson
- Doneker fled from troopers, who later discovered cocaine, cash, and a pepperball gun
- He faces multiple felony charges and was committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on secured bond
Chase ends after use of stop sticks
Troopers pursued Doneker as he committed several traffic violations across multiple roads. Stop sticks were deployed on Gravel Hill Road, successfully deflating one of the Honda’s tires. The vehicle came to a stop near Doc Frame Road, where Doneker exited holding what appeared to be a handgun.
Troopers ordered him to drop the weapon, which was later identified as a non-lethal pepperball gun. Doneker was then taken into custody without further incident.
Drugs, cash, and weapon recovered
A search revealed 0.11 grams of cocaine, an icepick, and approximately $4,700 in suspected drug proceeds. Police said Doneker also showed signs of impairment during his arrest.
Suspect faces multiple felony counts
Doneker was charged with possession of a deadly weapon during the commission of a felony, possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance, disregarding a police officer signal, carrying a concealed deadly weapon, resisting arrest, malicious mischief by a motor vehicle, driving under the influence of drugs, and several traffic violations.
He was arraigned by Justice of the Peace Court 3 and committed to Sussex Correctional Institution on a $24,401 secured bond.
