Parolee Drives Wrong Way on I-94 and Through Golf Course During Police Chase in Macomb County

A 52-year-old man out on parole caused chaos across Macomb County Monday afternoon, breaking into homes, stealing cars, and leading police on a dangerous chase through neighborhoods, a golf course, and even the wrong way down I-94.

The ordeal began around 12:32 p.m. on October 6, 2025, when a Harrison Township resident on Jefferson Avenue called 911 after spotting a man drinking from their hose. Deputies spoke with the man — later identified as Thomas Edward Tackett — who said he was homeless and walking to Port Huron but refused help.

About ten minutes later, another nearby resident reported a home invasion where a handgun was stolen. Deputies quickly realized Tackett was likely responsible.

At 12:53 p.m., Tackett was seen near Metropolitan Parkway and Prentiss Street. When deputies attempted to search him, he took off, sparking a short foot chase that caused nearby schools to go on lockdown.

By 1:01 p.m., he carjacked a 2023 black Ford Expedition on Coleridge Avenue. Deputies soon spotted the SUV near Metropolitan Parkway and Crocker, prompting a high-speed pursuit. Tackett sped through yards, bike paths, and side streets, heading toward St. Clair Shores.

Around 1:14 p.m., residents reported the SUV racing west on Elmira Street. Just minutes later, he attempted another carjacking near Briarcliff Street, then broke into a house on Timberidge Street, where the homeowner fired two shots as Tackett kicked in the door. No one was struck.

Tackett fled again, tearing through a golf course and damaging property before hitting Harper Avenue at speeds near 95 mph. The chase continued through Mount Clemens and Clinton Township, reaching 104 mph on Gratiot Avenue, then onto Hall Road — where Tackett entered I-94 going the wrong way.

Police called off the chase for safety. Around 1:32 p.m., Tackett crashed near Crocker Boulevard and fled on foot through Harrison Township neighborhoods.

He tried breaking into three homes, demanding keys from residents. In one, he threatened to stab a man with a fork, cutting his hand. In another, he ran off after learning the homeowner had a weapon.

Deputies finally caught up, tackled Tackett, and took him into custody.