Search underway for shoplifting suspect after pursuit, crash

A search is underway for a shoplifting suspect who troopers say fled from an attempted traffic stop Wednesday morning.

Trooper Johnna Batiste said Kent police responded to a report of a strong-arm robbery at a Metro PCS after 10:30 a.m.

Kent police chased the suspect on southbound I-5 and terminated the pursuit in the area of 320th Street.

Troopers on southbound I-5 were investigating a separate crash on the Pierce-King county line when a trooper saw a car matching Kent police's description of the suspect vehicle and noted it was being driven recklessly, investigators said.

Troopers tried to stop the vehicle and the suspect fled, said Batiste.

The suspect was involved in a two-vehicle crash on I-5 at 54th Street.

Two people were taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

Investigators said the suspect ran away from the scene on foot. He crossed I-5 into the Blue Dog RV parking lot in Fife.

A perimeter was set up, and Lakewood police are helping with the search for the suspect.

The suspect has dreadlocks and facial hair, and was wearing a red sweatshirt and black shorts. He remains on the run.

This is a developing story, please check back for updates. 

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