A Russell man was arrested Wednesday morning after leading multiple law enforcement agencies on a nearly 40-mile pursuit through two counties.

According to Barton County Sheriff Brian Bellendir, at about 9:45 a.m. near the intersection of NW 50 Road and NW 10 Avenue in Barton County, a BCSO detective came in contact with a northbound 2002 Honda Civic and its driver, later identified as 30-year-old Trenton Berens of Russell. He was wanted for outstanding felony warrants and fleeing from at least two other local law enforcement agencies. 

The detective attempted to stop the car, at which time Berens attempted to flee. He continued northbound in mostly rural areas of northwest Barton County and into Rush County. Bellendir said the pursuit continued for 37 miles and the Honda reached speeds of over 120 miles per hour. 

During the last few miles of the pursuit the car blew a tire, but Berens continued to flee until the vehicle entered a pasture several miles northwest of Bison.

Berens, who was the only occupant of the vehicle, then got out and attempted to flee on foot. He was quickly captured by several officers who had been in pursuit. They reportedly discovered Berens was in possession of suspected methamphetamine.

Following his capture, Berens was transported to the Barton County Jail without incident. 

He was booked for two warrants, a failure to appear with no bond from Barton County District Court and a felony attempt to flee and elude warrant from Reno County District Court with a $9,000 bond, along with interference with a law enforcement officer, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia as well as numerous other traffic violations.

The Barton County Sheriff’s office was assisted by deputies from the Rush County Sheriff’s Office, Russell County Sheriff’s Office and the Hoisington Police Department.