Attempted theft leads to high-speed chase, crash



GREENFIELD -- Greenfield police say a 23-year-old man is in custody in connection with an early morning attempted theft and high-speed chase in Greenfield. A second suspect, a 28-year-old man, is still being sought.

Officers were conducting a routine patrol around 2 a.m. Tuesday, April 24th when they spotted two men trying to steal tires and rims from a car at the Rosen Nissan dealership near 27th and Grange. Investigators tell FOX6 News, the suspects had a Nissan Rogue up on blocks and were in the process of stealing the tires and rims.

"They brought their own jack and they brought their own blocks, and their own tools, and they did it right there. Their intent was to try and get as many (tires into the car) as possible. I think they were gonna have a difficult time getting that many tires in that little car," one investigator said.

The two suspects fled the scene in a red Nissan, heading west down Grange Avenue at speeds up to 100 miles per hour.

The red Nissan ended up making a turn onto Loomis Rd., flew across all incoming lanes, and crashed in a ditch. After crashing their vehicle, the suspects got out of the car and fled the scene on foot.

Officers were able to track down the 23-year-old suspect -- because it was his car the two ditched near Loomis Rd.

"Being that the vehicle belonged to one of them--they, obviously, left a lot of evidence behind, and we were able to locate where the driver lives," said Det. Scott Simons of the Greenfield Police Department.

Police say that first suspect in custody is being cooperative. Again, they're still searching for the second suspect.

Investigators say the alleged crime is not uncommon at car dealerships. In fact, while FOX6 News was at the dealership, our reporter saw a few vehicles missing tires and rims from what we were told was a similar theft last weekend.

If you have any information regarding this incident the  Greenfield Police Department urges you to call 414-761-5300.