Swerving driver accused of attempted murder while being pursued in Abingdon and Bristol

A man in a U-Haul truck swerved to try and strike a sheriff’s deputy posted on Interstate 81, according to Washington County, Virginia authorities.

Michael C. Chewning, 40, of Lynchburg faces three counts of attempted capital murder stemming from his pursuit after failing to stop for a traffic violation.

A county report said Chewning tried to collide with patrol cruisers during the chase from Abingdon to its eventual end in Bristol where a K9 unit apprehended Chewning when he ran from the truck. Chewning is also charged with possession of narcotics and felony eluding.

(IMAGE: WCSO VA)