Man Accused After July Vehicle Pursuit
Blaine Andrew Peterson, 34, of Pine River, is charged in Cass County District Court with fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.
He is also charged with fleeing a peace officer by a means other than a motor vehicle.
The charges stem from an incident reported on July 8, 2026, in Cass County.
Court documents state Peterson was driving a white Ford SUV in Cass Lake when law enforcement noticed vehicle damage.
The SUV reportedly had a broken headlight bracket and a damaged rear brake light.
Authorities say the driver was identified as Peterson after officers saw the vehicle in the area.
The complaint states that a passenger in the front seat appeared to be trying to hide his position.
Blaine Andrew Peterson booking photo.
Police Say SUV Fled During Traffic Stop
According to court records, a deputy located the SUV and attempted a traffic stop.
The complaint states emergency lights were activated before the vehicle drove away.
Authorities allege the SUV fled at a high rate of speed through a parking lot.
The vehicle reportedly went over a curb before continuing through Cass Lake streets.
The pursuit continued onto local roads, where authorities say the driver failed to stop.
Court documents state the SUV traveled through intersections while driving aggressively.
The vehicle eventually stopped near 61st Avenue NW, according to the complaint.
Peterson Allegedly Ran From Vehicle
Authorities say Peterson immediately left the vehicle and ran after it stopped.
Another passenger also reportedly fled from the scene.
Two other passengers remained and told investigators they were afraid during the pursuit.
The passengers reportedly said they had asked the driver to stop and let them out.
Authorities later located Peterson hiding in a wooded area nearby.
He was taken into custody and booked on the charges.
Court Charges Filed
Peterson faces one felony count of fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle.
That charge carries a possible sentence of up to three years and one day.
He also faces a misdemeanor fleeing charge involving an attempt to avoid officers on foot.
The case remains pending in Cass County District Court.
All charges are allegations, and Peterson is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
More information about Minnesota court cases can be found through the Minnesota Judicial Branch.
Copyright 2026 TRF News. All rights reserved.
I’m Adrian Cole, reporting for TRF News.