A Cedar Bluff man was arrested on Friday after state troopers and deputies were called to a suspected motor vehicle accident on Highway 35; however they quickly realized the damage did not appear accidental.  

Investigators learned the incident began as a child custody dispute at a motel in Cedar Bluff.  The mother of the children refused to let the children stay with their father and left, traveling toward Gaylesville. 

The father asked Jeremiah Elkins, a friend of his, to chase the vehicle.  Elkins attempted multiple times to forcibly stop the vehicle occupied by the woman and children and eventually forced them off the road and into a ditch.  The mother of the children was transported to Floyd Medical Center for minor injuries sustained in the crash. 

Investigators arrested 21 year old Jeremiah William Elkins for criminal mischief, first degree and four counts of reckless endangerment. 

Elkins was transported to the Cherokee County Detention Center by Cedar Bluff Police, where he awaits bond.