Two men arrested after IMPD chase leads to major drug seizure in southwest district

Indianapolis, Indiana – Two Indianapolis men are facing serious drug and weapons allegations after a police investigation and vehicle pursuit led to the seizure of large quantities of suspected narcotics and cash. Detectives with the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Southwest District Violen Crimes Task Force arrested 38-year-old Damon Rowie Jr. and 58-year-old Anthony Anderson on preliminary charges tied to drug possession and dealing.

The investigation unfolded Thursday, February 26, 2026, shortly after 11:30 a.m., when task force detectives attempted to stop a vehicle near Burdsal Parkway and Rader Street. Officers reported observing suspected narcotics activity along with a traffic violation. The driver, later identified as Rowie Jr., initially complied and pulled over.

An IMPD Interdiction K9 unit was called to the scene to conduct an open-air sniff around the vehicle. During the stop, however, Rowie Jr. suddenly put the vehicle in drive and sped away, nearly striking an IMPD detective.

Pursuit leads to major narcotics seizure

Officers quickly initiated a pursuit. During the chase, detectives observed a large bag containing white powder being thrown from the vehicle. Pursuing officers recovered the bag.

Police used a precision immobilization technique (PIT maneuver) to safely stop the fleeing vehicle. While the maneuver was successful, investigators said Rowie Jr. then intentionally rammed at least one IMPD patrol vehicle. No officers were injured during the incident.

Officers and detectives eventually took Rowie Jr. into custody. As the investigation continued, detectives obtained a search warrant for a residence connected to the case. When officers served the warrant, they also arrested Anderson.

Searches of the vehicle and the residence uncovered a significant quantity of suspected illegal drugs and related items, including:

• more than 18 pounds of suspected fentanyl

• 16 pounds of suspected methamphetamine

• nearly 2 pounds of suspected cocaine

• two handguns

• $36,000 in cash

• narcotics dealing equipment, including a pill press

Police said the volume and type of drugs recovered pose a serious danger to the community.

“This case highlights both the danger fentanyl poses to our community and the risk our officers face when violent offenders choose to flee,” said Chief Tanya Terry. “Thanks to the quick, coordinated work of our Southwest District VCTF detectives and officers, a significant quantity of deadly narcotics was taken off our streets and two suspects were safely taken into custody.”

Charges and next steps

Anthony Anderson was arrested on preliminary charges of dealing narcotics and possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon. Rowie Jr. faces preliminary charges of dealing narcotics, possession of a firearm by a serious violent felon, and resisting law enforcement in a vehicle.

The Marion County Prosecutor’s Office will determine final charges.

Authorities emphasized that both men are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.

Police officials noted the case underscores the continued efforts of IMPD and its Violent Crimes Task Force to disrupt drug trafficking operations and remove dangerous substances from Indianapolis streets. The seizure of large amounts of suspected fentanyl — a drug often linked to fatal overdoses — highlights the ongoing threat facing communities and the importance of coordinated enforcement actions.

Investigators say the case remains part of broader efforts to combat narcotics distribution and protect public safety.