The search for a missing Americus man was suspended shortly after 2 p.m. Friday because the waters of the Muckalee Creek were too high. That according to Sumter County Sheriff Pete Smith, whose personnel, at the request of the Americus Police Department, had been searching all morning. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the Georgia State Patrol were also involved in the search.

The Americus Police Department identified the missing man as James Darron Fuller, 26, of 302 Hosanna Circle, Americus. He is described as a black male, 5’07”, 170 lbs.

Americus police conducted a traffic stop at 11:30 p.m. Wednesday at 3 Squares Diner, 1204 S. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., on Fuller’s vehicle for an expired tag. Fuller fled the scene on foot to the area behind the Kangaroo store and the diner. The officer in pursuit of Fuller said he heard a splash when the chase led to the Muckalee Creek, according to the sheriff. Fuller’s family contacted police shortly before 6 p.m. Thursday because they had not heard from him since.

Smith said a ground team was searching the area Friday morning, including Muckalee Creek, and a Georgia State Patrol helicopter was also being used in the search but had to land because of gusty winds.

With the search suspended, Smith said it could take several days, or up to a week, before the waters of the creek recede so the search can continue.

The Americus Police Department is asking anyone who has information on Fuller, to call the Criminal Investigation Division at 229-924-4550 or call 911.