Wanted Man Captured After Running Across I-95 In Smithfield

SMITHFIELD — A Wilson’s Mills man wanted on outstanding warrants was captured Thursday after authorities said he ran across all lanes of Interstate 95 while trying to get away from a Johnston County sheriff’s deputy.

The lengthy foot pursuit began Oct. 8 after a deputy spotted 44-year-old Damaka Andrew Cofield at a motel off Outlet Center Drive in Smithfield.

According to the Johnston County Sheriff’s Office, Cofield fled on foot across Outlet Center Drive, climbed over a fence and crossed I-95.

Authorities said he then continued running across a field on the east side of the interstate.

Deputies followed on foot and took Cofield into custody a short time later.

Cofield was wanted by Wilson’s Mills Police on warrants issued in August charging him with felony burning personal property and misdemeanor communicating threats in connection with a domestic-related incident.

He was also wanted for failing to appear in court on 2025 charges that included driving while license revoked, simple possession of a controlled substance, intoxicated and disruptive, and expired registration.

After Thursday’s pursuit, Cofield was additionally charged with resisting a public officer.

Johnston County EMS evaluated Cofield before he was transported to the Johnston County Detention Center. He was held under a $33,000 secured bond.

No injuries were reported.