Wrong-Way Driver Takes Unplanned Morning Jog Through Columbia Borough

Columbia, PA — February 17, 2026
Columbia Borough Police started their Sunday morning with a surprise cardio session thanks to 21-year-old Jalil Tyrone White, who apparently decided the 200 block of Avenue H was a “choose your own direction” kind of street.

According to police, White was driving a gray Nissan Altima with plate NCM‑4411, going the wrong way down the block around 8:44 a.m. This was not, unfortunately, part of the borough’s new traffic.

Traffic Stop… and Then a Cardio Challenge

When an officer pulled him over, White decided it was the perfect time to abandon his vehicle and try out for the unofficial Columbia Track & Field Team, sprinting away on foot despite repeated commands to stop.

Spoiler:
He did not win the race.

Police documents note he “unlawfully removed himself from official detention,” which is legal-speak for “I’m outta here!”

“Bonus Items” Found

Upon apprehension, officers discovered that White was carrying a plastic bag containing three individually packaged corner‑tie bags of marijuana, weighing about 32 grams total. The packaging suggested he wasn’t preparing for a quiet night in with snacks and Netflix.

Driver’s License? More Like Driver’s Wish.

White reportedly did not have a valid driver’s license. He had only a learner’s permit — and no supervising licensed driver in the passenger seat, which is kind of the whole point of a learner’s permit. So, yes, he was learning… but not the right lessons.

The Official List of Oopsies

White now faces the following (very real) charges:

Escape (F3) — because foot races with police are frowned upon
Possession With Intent to Deliver a Controlled Substance (Felony)
Evading Arrest or Detention on Foot (M2)
Driving the Wrong Way (Summary Offense) — GPS not included
Driving Without a License (Summary Offense) — learning the hard way

All charges were filed in Magisterial District Court 02‑1‑03 by Officer Frank Ember III, who definitely didn’t expect to start his morning chasing someone down Avenue H.

What’s Next?

A preliminary hearing will follow, though no date has yet been posted. The Nissan Altima has since retired from its short career as a one‑way rebel.

For more local updates — funny or otherwise — stay tuned to ColumbiaPA.online.