Cullman County, AL - Dozens of police officers were on the scene of a standoff in Cullman County Saturday afternoon.  Police say they believed suspect, Christopher Laye, was inside a trailer on Hwy 91, but 8 hours later, when they busted inside, nobody was there.

As of 11pm Saturday night more than a half a dozen law enforcement agencies were still searching for Laye. Investigators describe Laye as a white male, 5'10', 200 lbs. They say he may be armed with a rifle. The 28 year-old is from Sumiton in Walker County.



The massive search for Laye started Friday night around 10p.m. when Sumiton Police busted a meth lab.  Officers arrested and handcuffed Laye and put him in the backseat of the police car.  Somehow, he was able to get into the front seat and steal the car.

Investigators say, at some point, Laye ditched the police car but not before stealing guns and and an officer's jacket from inside the vehicle. Officials believe Laye may have later posed as a police officer in need of a ride.
Here's why....
Late Friday night a Cullman County Sheriff's deputy pulls over a black Jeep Cherokee. The deputy asks the driver to step out of the car. He does. Turns out Laye's in the passenger seat. The suspect then hops in the driver's seat and, unsuccessfully, tries to run the deputy over. Once again, Laye drives off.

Sometime Saturday morning investigators see the suspect get out of the Jeep and walk, with a rifle in hand, into an empty trailer on Hwy 91 in Cullman County. A half a dozen law enforcement agencies surround the trailer. They attempt to talk to the suspect. They also throw tear gas into the mobile home. After an 8 hour standoff, investigators discover Laye was no longer inside.

"He's pretty elusive and it's a concern. We ask citizens to be cautious and careful. Don't be fearful but be aware," says Tyler Roden, Cullman County Sheriff.

The driver of the Jeep was taken into custody for questioning. Officials are not sure if the man is an accomplice or a victim. 
Investigators believe the trailer Laye ran into was random. They also say Laye does not have an extensive criminal history.

If you have any information on Christopher Laye's wherabouts call the police.

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