Manhunt on for runaway driver in West Augustine

Florida Highway Patrol Troop G headquarters informed local Historic City News reporters at approximately 10:17 p.m. Monday night that troopers engaged a 25-year-old white male driving a reportedly stolen 1998 Toyota Tacoma near the intersection of SR-A1A and SR-312, in St Augustine.

During the felony traffic stop, the driver, Joseph Porter Sembower, whose last reported address was 13040 CR-13 North in Saint Augustine, fled the scene; initiating a high-speed chase that ended at West Augustine Little League Park, 1300 Duval Street.

A PIT maneuver was attempted by state troopers against the suspect vehicle.  When the chase came to an end a few minutes later, Sembower exited the vehicle and fled into the neighborhood on foot.  A search of the area was conducted, and the driver was not located.

Sembower will be charged at the time of his arrest with fleeing and eluding law enforcement, aggravated battery, reckless driving, driving while license suspended and possession of marijuana.

If anyone has information as to the whereabouts of Sembower, please contact investigators at *FHP (*347) or (904) 301-3700.