The chain of events began around 8 p.m. on I-95 when a motorist called 911 to report Dana Perkins as a drunk driver. A Highway Patrol trooper then started chasing Perkins.
Officials say they did all they could to try and stop Perkins safely. Stop sticks were waiting for the Pontiac Firebird just a few miles from where the crash occurred.
Troopers say Perkins slammed into Angela Deans' Chevy Blazer at a speed near 100 mph, almost triple the 35 mph speed limit on the road. After impact, the speedometer inside Perkins' car was stuck at 101 miles per hour.
The impact was so powerful, the two vehicles wrapped around a tree.
Dean and her 9-year-old daughter were taken to Wilson Memorial. The 41-year-old is now in intensive care.
Trooper L.C. Harrell describes Perkins' driving as insane. "He obviously had no regard for anyone, not even himself"
Perkins was arrested and charged with numerous offenses, including DWI. He is currently in the Nash County jail.
The Highway Patrol will review the decision to chase Perkins, but they say there are times when even a high speed pursuit is a trooper's only option.
The Highway Patrol also says it is important to note that chases are not something they take lightly. They have a certain list of rules they have to go by before they can engage in a chase. Reporter: Todd HauerPhotographer: Lynn French
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