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Fentanyl cargo from Phoenix to Denver intercepted during traffic stop

The 28-year-old driver was arrested after Arizona state troopers allegedly found 54 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills in the car.

YAVAPAI COUNTY, Ariz. — Over 50 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills on their way to Denver were intercepted by state troopers Monday during a traffic stop on Interstate 17.

A Toyota Camry driving north on the freeway was stopped near Anthem by a trooper for an equipment violation. The motorist took off during the traffic stop, resulting in DPS pursuing the fleeing vehicle along I-17.

The driver eventually came to a stop near milepost 254 and was detained by troopers, according to the Arizona Department of Public Safety.

Investigators reported finding about 54 pounds of suspected fentanyl pills and 2.5 pounds of methamphetamine concealed inside the suspect's car. Some of the pills were hidden inside beer boxes.

DPS said the drugs were being transported from Phoenix to Denver.

The driver, who's been identified as 28-year-old Omar Arias, was booked into the Yavapai County jail for pending drug charges.

Credit: DPS

    

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