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

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.

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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