BEDFORD — A Mitchell man was arrested early Sunday morning after a Bedford Police officer reportedly observed him racing a motorcycle at speeds exceeding 100 mph while intoxicated.
Joshua Hurt, 23, is facing multiple alcohol related charges.
According to a probable cause affidavit filed by Officer Sarah Haluda of the Bedford Police Department, the incident began at approximately 1:00 a.m. on April 19, 2026. Officer Haluda observed a motorcycle and a maroon Ram pickup truck, later identified as being driven by Hurt, revving their engines and accelerating rapidly from the Lincoln Avenue roundabout onto John Williams Boulevard.
The officer reported that the two vehicles appeared to be racing as they turned south onto State Road 37. During the pursuit, Officer Haluda reached speeds over 100 mph but was initially unable to close the distance.
The vehicles eventually turned onto Pumphouse Road, where the truck slowed to 62 mph while the motorcycle accelerated away. Officer Haluda noted that the driver of the Ram “continuously swerved into oncoming traffic,” occupying entire lanes around blind corners and hills. A traffic stop was initiated at the intersection of Pumphouse Road and Victorian.
Upon making contact with Hurt, the officer noted several signs of impairment
Hurt’s eyes were glassy, and he was hesitant to make direct eye contact. Although the officer could not initially smell alcohol due to an “overwhelming smell” of air fresheners, Hurt eventually admitted to consuming “one beer” before driving.
While speaking with the officer, Hurt reportedly let off the brake, causing the truck to roll forward. He also stumbled and was unsteady on his feet while calling a family member.
Hurt provided a preliminary breath test sample of .212 BrAC at the scene. He later provided a certified breath test sample of .174 g/210L at 1:39 a.m., more than double the legal limit.
Hurt told the officer he was on his way to a boat club to pick up his ex-girlfriend because she had been drinking and “needed to not be on the road.” While waiting for his certified test, Hurt reportedly fell asleep.
During a search of the vehicle before it was released to a family member, officers found a half-empty, open Coors Banquet beer in the cup holder.
Hurt was transported to the Lawrence County Jail for housing. He is charged with OWI, OWI-endangerment, and OWI per se.
All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. This article is based on the information provided in the probable cause affidavit and does not represent a final determination of guilt or innocence.
