DALLAS, TX – A slow-speed pursuit involving a volleyball coach unfolded in Dallas, resulting in the arrest of James Williamson, 57, after a bizarre incident that left many scratching their heads. Williamson, a volleyball coach from the Houston area, was in town for the USA Volleyball National Championship when he found himself at the center of an unusual police chase.
Williamson was apprehended early Monday morning after leading Dallas firefighters and police on a low-speed pursuit while driving a heavily damaged SUV. The vehicle, a 2023 Jeep Grand Wagoneer, was missing its left front wheel, which had fallen off, causing sparks to fly as it skidded along the road. According to court documents, Williamson’s blood alcohol level was over twice the legal limit at the time of his arrest.
The affidavit reveals that Williamson confessed to consuming four to five 12-ounce bottles of alcohol at a bar between 7 p.m. and 12:30 a.m. before attempting to drive. When questioned about his precarious driving, he admitted, “I hit a curb and I screwed up.”
Williamson, who is also a U.S. Navy veteran, had been participating in the Junior Girls National Volleyball Tournament at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center. His SUV was found filled with dozens of volleyballs, underscoring his role as a coach.
During a field sobriety test, officers observed Williamson swaying and exhibiting slurred speech, with red, bloodshot eyes. The test was halted to prevent him from falling and potentially injuring himself.
Despite the chaos, no one was injured during the incident, and Williamson does not have a prior criminal record. The arrest has raised questions about the circumstances leading up to the chase and Williamson’s actions that night.
Authorities continue to review the details surrounding the arrest, while the volleyball community remains silent on his future involvement in the sport.