Smiths Grove man charged after high-speed police pursuit

SMITHS GROVE, Ky. – A Smiths Grove man is charged following a police pursuit through Warren County.

According to a uniform citation, the Warren County Sheriff’s Office observed a vehicle traveling 121 miles per hour on Interstate 65 southbound near the Smiths Grove exit around 2:15 a.m. on Wednesday.

Authorities say they attempted a traffic stop, however, the vehicle continued traveling.

When the vehicle stopped, authorities say the vehicle left a passenger on the side of the road and continued fleeing. During the pursuit, deputies say the vehicle reached 146 mph.

Deputies say the vehicle then traveled down multiple roads in Bowling Green going at least 100 mph.

Authorities say the vehicle eventually crossed the median, almost striking a Bowling Green Police Department patrol cruiser. The vehicle then wrecked into a cornfield, according to the citation.

The driver was identified as 18-year-old Triston Cianci of Smiths Grove.

Cianci was taken into custody. Deputies say they located an open bottle of liquor in the vehicle.

Following standard field sobriety testing, Cianci was arrested and transported for medical clearance.

Cianci remains at the Warren County Detention Center on charges of speeding 26 miles per hour or greater over the speed limit, reckless driving, first-degree fleeing or evading police (motor vehicle), first-degree fleeing or evading police (on foot), first-degree wanton endangerment of a police officer, resisting arrest, operating a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol or a substance, third offense, possession of an open alcoholic beverage container in motor vehicle prohibited and driving on a DUI suspended license, second offense.