Maryland state police stock photo
Maryland State Police Stock Photo

West Virginia Man Held Girlfriend Hostage, Arrested After High Speed Chase in Maryland

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1 min read
June 25, 2025

ALLEGANY COUNTY, Md. — A West Virginia man was arrested on multiple charges, including kidnapping and assault, after allegedly abducting his ex-girlfriend and fleeing from police during a high-speed chase in Allegany County.

Deputies from the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to the 13000 block of Upper Georges Creek Road following a report of a disturbance. A witness at the scene informed deputies that a woman had been taken against her will by her ex-boyfriend, who had fled the area.

West virginia man held girlfriend hostage, arrested after high speed chase in maryland
Photo: west virginia man held girlfriend hostage, arrested after high speed chase in maryland

While the investigation was underway, a Maryland State Police trooper from the Cumberland Barrack observed a vehicle traveling at high speeds and driving recklessly in Allegany County. The trooper initiated a traffic stop and, following a brief foot pursuit, apprehended the suspect for suspected DUI offenses.

The suspect, identified as 32-year-old Tony Lee Gallen II of Wiley Ford, W.Va., was processed for DUI-related charges by Maryland State Police before being transferred into the custody of the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office.

The victim was located, treated by medical professionals, and released to sheriff’s deputies. No serious injuries were reported.

Kidnapping suspect faces multiple felony charges

Gallen was transported to the Allegany County Detention Center for an initial court appearance. He faces the following charges: kidnapping, false imprisonment, violation of a protective order, reckless endangerment, malicious destruction of property, first- and second-degree assault, and threat of mass violence.

The case remains under investigation by both the Allegany County Sheriff’s Office and Maryland State Police.

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