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*UPDATE: The suspect in the multi-agency chase has been identified by authorities.

By DANIEL LOCKE | Staff Writer

CALERA ­– An arrest connected to a multi-agency police chase that left law enforcement officers injured has been made.

After shutting down Northbound on Interstate 65 near mile maker 233, just short of the Shelby County Airport exit, around 5 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, officers were able to apprehend the suspect.

According to the Calera Police Department, two Calera officers sustained minor injuries during the arrest of the suspect on July 2. A Pelham officer was injured when the suspect attempted to escape at the hospital. Additionally, an Alabama State Trooper was struck while deploying spike strips.

The department confirmed that none of the injuries were life-threatening and all of the personnel involved are expected to make a full recovery.

In addition to the Calera and Pelham departments, numerous other law enforcement agencies in the area jumped in to assist.

“This was a strong example of teamwork and coordination between multiple law enforcement agencies,” read an official Facebook post by the Calera Police Department. “Agencies involved included the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Pelham Police Department, Alabaster Police Department, Chilton County Sheriff’s Office, Jemison Police Department and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office aviation unit. The Shelby County District Attorney’s Office also responded to the scene to assist.”

The department also stated that this is at least the second time that it has had to deal with this suspect.

“When a suspect chooses to flee law enforcement that choice endangers the public, law enforcement and themselves,” read a post by the CPD. “This is the second time I am aware of that we have had to pursue this particular individual. We are very lucky that the trooper struck by the suspect’s vehicle was not killed or more severely injured.”

The department gave further insight into one officer’s injuries and called on lawmakers to help keep dangerous criminals away from the public.

“We are waiting now on test results for communicable diseases since our officer was stuck with (a) needle,” read a post by the CPD. “We shouldn’t have to deal with the same offenders over and over and endanger these officers lives, but the trend continues. I am grateful that Alabama now has a felony (for) attempting to elude law (enforcement) but that has clearly not solved the problem. I hope our lawmakers and judges will look at this and work with us to keep dangerous criminals off the street.”