FLORENCE-On October 18, 2024, a Florence Police Officer witnessed Michael Taylor run a stop sign
at the intersection of Courtney Avenue and Decatur Avenue. The officer conducted a traffic stop
at Decatur Avenue and Hermitage Drive. The investigating officer observed signs of impairment
while speaking to Taylor.
Michael Taylor
While conducting field sobriety tests, Taylor jumped back in his vehicle, fleeing from the
scene. Two Florence Officers moved to prevent being hit by Taylor’s vehicle as he fled.
Officers pursued Taylor south on Helton Drive into Colbert County. The pursuit continued south
on Wilson Dam Road with speeds exceeding 100 MPH. When Taylor reached Wilson Dam Road
and Highway 20, he collided with a pickup and semi. The vehicle then hit a culvert, rolling over
several times.
Officers pulled Taylor from his 2004 Chevy Silverado as the vehicle began to
smoke and caught fire. Taylor was transported to North Alabama Medical Center, where he was
treated and released. The other drivers were not injured.
Taylor was arrested and charged with two counts of Attempted Assault 2nd degree, Attempting to
Elude, and DUI. Taylor was released after posting a bond of $10,500.
Michael Shane Taylor is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Media Release/Sergeant Ryan Kelly/Criminal Investigations Division
