York, Pennsylvania, October 1, 2025
News Summary
Paul Witman Jr., a 30-year-old from York, Pennsylvania, was arrested after leading police on a harrowing multi-county chase. The pursuit began due to concerns over his mental health and an active arrest warrant for multiple domestic violence charges. The chase involved several law enforcement agencies and concluded with Witman attempting to harm himself before officers negotiated his surrender.
York, Pennsylvania – Paul Witman Jr., a 30-year-old man from York, was arrested on September 29 after leading police on a multi-county vehicle chase that involved law enforcement agencies from Lebanon, Berks, Lancaster, and York counties. The pursuit began in response to a report concerning a “suicidal subject” and an active arrest warrant for Witman, who faced multiple domestic violence charges.
The chase escalated after troopers from the Pennsylvania State Police (PSP) Jonestown attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Witman’s vehicle at approximately 7 p.m. Witman allegedly fled the scene, resulting in a series of dangerous maneuvers including striking an embankment. Police attempted to execute a PIT maneuver, a tactical strategy used to disable a vehicle, but it was unsuccessful, allowing Witman to continue his flight.
In an attempt to evade capture, Witman drove through a farm pasture, where his vehicle became disabled after becoming entangled in electric fence wire. After exiting the vehicle, Witman reportedly held a pistol to his head during a standoff with law enforcement. Officers managed to persuade Witman to drop the firearm, ultimately leading to his arrest without further incident.
The Northern York County Regional Police Department initiated the pursuit, though specific details regarding how it started have yet to be disclosed. Following the incident, Witman has been charged with multiple offenses including stalking, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, trespass by motor vehicle, disregard for traffic lane, and driving while operating with a suspended license. The investigation into this incident remains active as of the latest police release.
Chase Overview
The chase covered multiple counties and highlighted significant coordination among various law enforcement agencies. The response was initiated based on concerns for Witman’s mental health and his outstanding legal issues. The use of police tactical maneuvers during the pursuit underscores the serious nature of the situation and the threats posed by Witman’s actions.
Charges Against Witman
- Stalking
- Fleeing or attempting to elude an officer
- Trespass by motor vehicle
- Disregard for traffic lane
- Driving while operating with a suspended license
Background Context
Witman’s recent charges stem from previous incidents of domestic violence, suggesting ongoing concerns regarding his behavior and mental health. His arrest follows a troubling escalation that included threats to himself, highlighting the intersection of law enforcement response and mental health crises.
Conclusion
The operation to apprehend Witman involved multiple law enforcement agencies and concluded without further injury or property damage, thanks to the successful negotiation tactics employed by the responding officers. The ongoing investigation is likely to analyze the events leading up to the chase and the appropriateness of police responses in situations involving mental health crises.
FAQ
Who was arrested in the multi-county chase?
Paul Witman Jr., a 30-year-old man from York, was arrested.
What led to the police chase involving Witman?
The police chase began in response to a report of a “suicidal subject” with an active arrest warrant for multiple domestic violence charges.
What charges has Paul Witman Jr. faced?
Witman has been charged with stalking, fleeing or attempting to elude an officer, trespass by motor vehicle, disregard for traffic lane, and driving while operating with a suspended license.
How did the police manage to arrest Witman?
Witman was taken into custody after law enforcement officers persuaded him to drop a pistol he was holding to his head during a standoff.
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