Des Moines hit-and-run leads to stolen car chase, dramatic take down

DES MOINES, Wash. — A suspect was taken into custody in dramatic fashion after an alleged hit-and-run in a stolen vehicle.

The collision happened in a Safeway parking lot in Des Moines.  The hit-and-run was so minor, the victim didn't want to wait around for Des Moines police.  But he did get the license plate.  And once police found out the vehicle had been stolen, a chase ensued.

Video from an eyewitness shows the arrest happened out in the open at 24th Avenue South and South 240th, across from Highline College.

Less than a half hour earlier, the driver was involved in what Des Moines police say was a minor-hit-and-run in the Redondo Square parking lot.

"With that additional reporting party actually asking for a call to be canceled because he had some type of holiday party to go to," said Sgt. Dave Mohr.

He said by telephone the police might have let the incident go as well.  But their interest was piqued as soon as the vehicle came back stolen.

"Obviously, our interest is in the fact that the vehicle was stolen," said Mohr.

After allegedly fleeing the hitand-run, the driver parked the vehicle some two miles away in a driveway.  That is where an officer spotted it.  Two people were asleep, inside. The driver woke up and backed out, allegedly hitting two patrol cars as he sped away.

Mohr says the suspect knew the police were there.

"Yes, absolutely," said Sgt. Mohr. "There's no doubt in my mind."

Officers gave chase.  They were forced to perform a PIT maneuver to get the driver to finally stop.

"And ultimately after a brief struggle," said Mohr, "and one of our sergeants almost being struck by the vehicle, both subjects were taken into custody."

The passenger was released.

But the driver was taken to the hospital for what police say were minor injuries.  He was booked into jail just before 6 p.m. Saturday.

He is being held for investigation on seven charges, including possession of a firearm and possession of a stolen vehicle.

Cox Media Group