This story is free to read because readers choose to support LAist. If you find value in independent local reporting, make a donation to power our newsroom today.
This is an archival story that predates current editorial management.
This archival content was written, edited, and published prior to LAist's acquisition by its current owner, Southern California Public Radio ("SCPR"). Content, such as language choice and subject matter, in archival articles therefore may not align with SCPR's current editorial standards. To learn more about those standards and why we make this distinction, please click here.
Retired NASCAR Driver Leads Police on High Speed Chase
James Neal was a NASCAR track racer in the 1980s, but he never won a national race.
But on Monday night in Orange County, Neal drove himself right into the spotlight, and the hot seat, when he led authorities on a 50-mile chase that went from San Clemente to La Jolla, according to LA Now.
Neal was behind the wheel of a 2003 Corvette, which at times he took to speeds as high as 140 miles per hour. The Orange County Sheriff's Department, while in pursuit, however, did not know they were dealing with a former pro driver. "The chase finally ended when Neal's engine blew up in the La Jolla area and deputies arrested him without incident."
Over 20 years ago, Neal raced at he Ascot Park track in Gardena, and returned to racing in 2008 after a 21-year absence.
He won't be free to drive again for a little while: "Neal pleaded guilty on Tuesday to misdemeanor felony evasion while driving recklessly and has been sentenced to a month in jail and probation."
You come to LAist because you want independent reporting and trustworthy local information. Our newsroom doesn’t answer to shareholders looking to turn a profit. Instead, we answer to you and our connected community. We are free to tell the full truth, to hold power to account without fear or favor, and to follow facts wherever they lead. Our only loyalty is to our audiences and our mission: to inform, engage, and strengthen our community.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Right now, LAist has lost $1.7M in annual funding due to Congress clawing back money already approved. The support we receive from readers like you will determine how fully our newsroom can continue informing, serving, and strengthening Southern California.
If this story helped you today, please become a monthly member today to help sustain this mission. It just takes 1 minute to donate below.
Your tax-deductible donation keeps LAist independent and accessible to everyone.
Senior Vice President News, Editor in Chief
