Denny Ladon Henry Estes Jr., 32, of LaPorte, was charged in Porter Superior Court following an interstate pursuit that ended in an active construction zone.

According to court records, an Indiana State Police trooper attempted to stop a silver Toyota Camry at approximately 3:14 p.m. on June 23 on eastbound I-94 near the 28-mile marker in Chesterton after observing an obstructed license plate and unsafe lane movement. Instead of stopping, investigators allege the driver accelerated to speeds of approximately 100 mph before reaching 110 to 115 mph while fleeing.

Police said the vehicle passed traffic on the shoulder, crossed multiple lanes of traffic, and entered an active highway construction zone where workers were present. Investigators allege the vehicle struck an impact attenuator, narrowly missed a parked construction truck, and continued through the closed work area before the pursuing trooper terminated the chase for safety reasons.

According to court documents, the vehicle was later located abandoned in Michigan City. Officers located Estes nearby after a brief foot pursuit. Police said he was found carrying the keys to the Toyota.

Investigators reported finding a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun on the center console of the vehicle. After determining the firearm’s serial number, police learned it had been reported stolen by the Richton Park, Illinois Police Department in April 2025.

According to the probable cause affidavit, Estes allegedly told investigators, “Search my name up,” before adding, “I ain’t stopping for no police.” Police also reported that he claimed he had been alone in the vehicle and said he did not know the name of the friend who owned the car.

Court records state Estes had two active warrants at the time of his arrest and is prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior felony convictions, including robbery, aggravated battery, and resisting law enforcement causing bodily injury.

Charges filed June 24, 2026:

Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon – Level 4 Felony

Resisting Law Enforcement by Vehicle Creating a Substantial Risk of Injury – Level 5 Felony

Theft of a Firearm – Level 5 Felony

Reckless Operation of a Vehicle in a Highway Worksite with Workers Present – Class A Misdemeanor

Criminal Recklessness – Class A Misdemeanor

Leaving the Scene of a Property Damage Accident – Class B Misdemeanor