Man Accused of Smoking PCP, Crashing into Viaduct Released on Electronic Monitoring
Johnnie Harris, a 41-year-old man, was recently accused of smoking PCP and crashing into a viaduct at high speed after making alarming statements to his passengers. The incident took place on May 1, 2024, when Harris picked up his friends and smoked PCP with one of them before driving them to a gas station in his Chevy Tahoe.
According to Assistant State’s Attorney John Kyle, Harris started reminiscing about his late mother’s birthday and repeatedly mentioned wanting to go to heaven together with his passengers. As they left the gas station, Harris’s behavior became increasingly erratic, with witnesses recalling him saying, “Today is my Momma’s birthday and I’m going to kill us all.”
While driving down Western Avenue, Harris ignored his passengers’ pleas to stop, reaching speeds of up to 100 mph and crashing into a viaduct after hitting several objects along the way. Despite his passengers’ attempts to intervene, Harris continued driving recklessly, resulting in a devastating collision at the 3600 block of South Western Avenue.
One of the passengers suffered severe injuries that required multiple surgeries and the eventual amputation of his lower leg. Harris attempted to flee the scene after the crash, but was apprehended by authorities.
During Harris’s detention hearing, Judge Ankur Srivastava acknowledged the strong evidence against him but noted the lack of a criminal record and his commitment to mental health medication. As a result, Harris was released on electronic monitoring, with strict restrictions on leaving his home and driving.
Despite the charges of attempted first-degree murder, Harris maintains his innocence and denies all allegations, as stated by Assistant Public Defender Manpreet Chauhan during the hearing.
This report is based on official court transcripts of Harris’ detention hearing, providing exclusive insights into the case. Stay updated on unique reporting and support our work by clicking here.
