The Alexandria Police Department arrested one driver in connection with a high-speed vehicle race this weekend on I-495.
On Saturday, Feb. 27, 2021, around 11:15 p.m., an Alexandria supervisor on patrol in Old Town observed and heard several vehicles with loud exhaust systems accelerating and slowing on I-495. Upon receiving an alert from Virginia State Police about vehicles racing in the area of I-495 and Telegraph Road, Sergeant Ryan Waple positioned himself to observe three to four vehicles traveling in a group, positioning themselves to race. The drivers of two vehicles, including a silver Mustang GT, then revved their engines and accelerated. Sergeant Waple followed with due regard for safety, as the vehicles reached speeds of 105 MPH. At that point, he activated his emergency equipment and successfully stopped and apprehended the driver of the Mustang GT.
Mr. Edgar Lovos Granados was charged with Racing (46.2-865) and Reckless Driving by Speed (46.2-862). The Mustang GT was impounded by the Police Department.
“This type of behavior is dangerous to anyone these drivers are sharing the road with and will not be tolerated,” said Chief Michael L. Brown. “We want to commend Sergeant Waple for his effort to stop this reckless behavior.”
APD has worked in coordination with Virginia State Police to address the speeding and racing issues with numerous speed education and enforcement efforts. We recognize we still have more work to do to stop this dangerous behavior.
The Police department also understands the community’s concerns and frustrations with the loud noise caused by altered vehicle exhaust systems. However, under Virginia House Bill 5058 and Senate Bill 5029, law enforcement officers are now prevented from initiating traffic stops for a variety of offenses, including vehicles with altered exhaust systems.
For media inquiries, contact Amanda Paga, Senior Public Information Officer, at amanda.paga@alexandriava.gov or 703.746.6600.