Suspect Shot By State Troopers In Chesco After High Speed Chase

CHESTER COUNTY, PA — A suspect was shot by state troopers following a high speed chase in Chester County early Friday morning, authorities said. The incident is under investigation by Chester County Detectives, like all police-involved shootings.

The incident occurred in West Nottingham at around 1 a.m. on Feb. 1.

State police tried to stop the suspect's vehicle on 3rd Street in Oxford because his rear brake light was out. The man, Lancaster's Jeremy Oatman, 42, fled the scene in his van at high speeds when troopers got out of their vehicle.

Troopers pursued him, and the van eventually struck an embankment at a CVS in West Nottingham, according to officials.

That's when Oatman hopped out and pointed what appeared to be a pistol — but was later confirmed to be a realistic looking BB gun — at troopers.

The troopers then opened fire, striking him several times, police said.

Oatman was taken into custody and transported to a nearby hospital, where he is recovering from non-life threatening wounds.

He faces charges including aggravated assault, simple assault, fleeing and eluding, and related counts.

Chester County Detectives will determine if the shooting was justified.

More information will be provided as it becomes available.

Image of BB gun courtesy Chester County District Attorney's Office