CHILLICOTHE, OH – A routine traffic stop turned into a low-speed pursuit worthy of a Saturday morning cartoon when a man on a bicycle tried to outpedal the law — and lost.
On April 21, 2025, a Chillicothe police officer spotted a man doing his best Tour de Bridge Street impression, weaving through traffic and making an illegal U-turn on the ramp to US 35. The officer, clearly unimpressed with the cyclist’s impromptu performance, pulled into a nearby parking lot to initiate a traffic stop.
Instead of yielding, the cyclist — later identified as Steve McClarren — went full rogue, pedaling off toward North Plaza Boulevard. Adding insult to injury, Steve failed to use a hand signal when turning into the Roosters parking lot, which is basically the bicyclist’s version of forgetting to say “please.”
With lights flashing and sirens blaring, the officer gave chase. Steve, apparently not ready to give up his two-wheeled freedom, rode circles around the parking lot and dramatically jumped a curb — clearly aiming for the “Best Escape Attempt on a Budget” award.
He then doubled back onto Bridge Street, continuing to interfere with traffic like it was part of his daily cardio. When he attempted to flee up a hill behind the Quality Inn, the officer followed on foot, warning that the next step might involve a taser. Steve, still committed to the bit, got back on his bike — only to be promptly caught and gently relocated to the ground.
Once in custody, Steve admitted to having outstanding warrants — and some “ice” in his pocket that wasn’t the refreshing kind. A quick search revealed two baggies of suspected narcotics and a blue straw with a suspicious white residue. He was transported to the Ross County Jail, where his warrants (for failure to appear on previous drug paraphernalia charges) were served.
His bike? Taken into safekeeping — and hopefully given a breather.
As for Steve, additional charges are pending. In the meantime, local authorities remind citizens that traffic laws — yes, even on bicycles — are still a thing.
