Wanted Man Abandoned Wife, Vehicle After Chase In Spotsylvania: Police

SPOTSYLVANIA COUNTY, VA — A husband and wife led police on a chase in Spotsylvania County on Wednesday afternoon, the sheriff's office said.

The wife, 24-year-old Sydney Renee Woodyard, was arrested on Wednesday. Her husband, Michael Woodyard, is still being sought by police.

Sydney Woodyard was arrested on outstanding warrants for felony drug possession, false statement to law enforcement, and possession of controlled paraphernalia. Michael Woodyard is wanted on charges including felony drug possession and eluding.

Around 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, narcotics detectives said they saw the Woodyards in a vehicle near Lake Anna Parkway and Robert E. Lee Drive. Detectives knew the Woodyards had outstanding warrants and attempted a traffic stop. The driver, Michael Woodyard, refused to stop, according to the police report.

Authorities said that Michael Woodyard eventually abandoned the vehicle and his wife in a field near the National Park Service on Brock Road. He ran into the woods before catching a ride with a passing driver who did not know about Woodyard's wanted status, police said.

The driver dropped Woodyard off in the western end of Spotsylvania County. The driver told police what happened after they noticed a large police presence when they returned to the area.

Anyone with more information about Michael Woodyard's whereabouts can contact 1-800-928-5822 or 1-540-582-5822.