WEST UNION — An Iowa man faces a felony eluding charge following a high-speed motorcycle pursuit that spanned nearly 18 miles across two Northern Iowa counties on Monday evening.
The incident began at approximately 6:29 p.m. on April 13, 2026, when a Fayette County Deputy spotted a motorcycle traveling at a high rate of speed on Lincoln Road, near the intersection of South Industrial Parkway in West Union. When the deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the motorcyclist accelerated and attempted to flee from law enforcement.
The pursuit covered approximately 17.7 miles before coming to a safe conclusion at the intersection of Maryville Street and Main Street in Calmar.
The rider, identified as 22-year-old Nipun Yonjan of Decorah, was taken into custody without further incident. Yonjan was transported to the Fayette County Jail, where he was held pending an initial appearance.
Yonjan (pictured at top) has been charged with:
Eluding – 25 mph over the limit (Class D Felony)
Reckless Driving (Simple Misdemeanor)
Speeding – 21 mph+ over in a 55 mph or under zone (Simple Misdemeanor)
No Proof of Financial Liability (Simple Misdemeanor)
The Fayette County Sheriff’s Office was assisted in the chase and subsequent arrest by the Winneshiek County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa State Patrol, and the West Union Police Department. Don’s Towing assisted with the recovery of the motorcycle.