HOPKINS COUNTY, TX – A Hopkins County man is facing charges after a pursuit and standoff that began Thursday evening at a rest area along Interstate 30.
On September 25, 2025, deputies were dispatched to the I-30 eastbound safety rest area after receiving a report of a potentially suicidal subject in a white Dodge vehicle. When deputies made contact with the driver, later identified as Kraig Steven Betterton, he allegedly refused commands and fled the scene, sparking a county-wide pursuit.
Hopkins County deputies, with assistance from the Texas Department of Public Safety (DPS), deployed a spike strip that deflated one of the vehicle’s tires. Despite the damage, Betterton continued driving north on FM 499, crossing into Cumby before turning onto North Frisco Street. The chase continued westbound, then north on FM 275, where deputies were able to bring the vehicle to a stop near County Road 4730.
Authorities said Betterton refused to exit the vehicle or follow commands, leading to a prolonged standoff. Negotiators attempted multiple times to de-escalate the situation before the Hopkins County SWAT Team ultimately made a tactical entry. Betterton was removed from the vehicle without incident.
He was medically evaluated by Hopkins County EMS and cleared before being transported to the Hopkins County Jail. According to arrest records, Betterton has been charged with:
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Evading Arrest or Detention with a Motor Vehicle
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Resisting Arrest, Search, or Transport
His bond was set at $7,500. Deputies said additional charges may be filed pending further investigation.
No officers or civilians were injured during the pursuit or standoff.
