Port St. Lucie, FL – A high-speed pursuit turned dangerous March 23 when 20-year-old Malachi Venerin raced through Port St. Lucie at 103 mph on Southwest Gatlin Boulevard, struck a police officer, and tried to steal a vehicle in a fast-food drive-thru before officers apprehended him.

Police said Venerin passed a traffic unit officer, who tried to initiate a stop, but the motorcyclist fled. During the pursuit, he struck the officer with his motorcycle, then crashed and continued running on foot.

Authorities reported that while in the drive-thru, Venerin attempted to steal a customer’s vehicle in his efforts to escape. Officers ultimately detained him.

A loaded firearm and narcotics were recovered from his backpack, including about 45 grams of marijuana with baggies and a scale.

Venerin now faces charges including aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer, fleeing and eluding, attempted vehicle theft, possession of a concealed firearm during a felony, possession of a firearm under 21, resisting without violence, driving with a suspended license, operating a motorcycle without an endorsement, driving an unregistered vehicle, possession of THC cartridges, and possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

He remains in the St. Lucie County Jail with bond set at $128,000. His motorcycle was towed following the arrest.

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