Bell County Sheriff's Department Seeking Man That Tried to Strike Deputies While Fleeing

From the Bell County Sheriff's Department -

Ova B Collett - Previous Arrest

Early Wednesday, May 13, 2026, Bell County Deputies were attempting to serve Bell and Laurel County warrants on 39-year-old Ova Brandon Collett of Pineville at a residence on Highway 92.

Collett fled the scene and was later identified as the driver that endangered Bell County highway department workers almost striking them while he sped away from deputies. While traveling at speeds over 100mph, Sgt. Austin Poindexter terminated the pursuit of Collett for safety concerns.

Later Wednesday evening deputies went to apprehend Collett for endangering the welfare of highway workers and Fleeing. Unknown to the deputies was that Collett’s vehicle had been parked behind the residence. As Sgt. Jody Risner walked around the corner of the home he heard the vehicle and saw Collett swerve in his direction putting the deputy in extreme risk of death and serious physical injury. Sgt. Risner was able to move out of the way with no serious injuries, but Collett continued in the direction of K-9 Deputy Keith Fuson with K-9 Steve.

Deputies then fired at Collett causing him to divert from striking the K-9 and he struck a fence line. Collet left the scene at a high rate of speed. His vehicle was found a short distance from the residence on Short Branch Road. He fled the vehicle into a wooded area. There is no evidence suggesting that Collett was injured during the incident.

Inside the vehicle deputies found suspected drugs and drug paraphernalia along with an air pistol with no orange tip and a machete. The Bell County Sheriff’s Department utilized K9 Steve and their drone with forward-looking infrared (FLIR) and was unable to locate Collett.

Bell dispatch requested assistance from other agencies. The Pineville Police Department assisted on scene while the Kentucky State Police assisted by covering calls for the Bell Sheriff’s Office.

The Bell County Sheriff’s Department is continuing to search for Collett. He is described as a white male, 6’1”, 231 lbs, with short dark brown hair and wears glasses. Any information concerning his whereabouts should be reported to the Bell County Sheriff’s Office at (606)-337-6174.