PENN HILLS, Pa. — A 15-year-old runaway is accused of stealing a car, leading police on a chase, crashing into several vehicles in a shopping plaza, then running from police.
The teen was arrested when he unknowingly asked an off-duty police officer for directions.
The incident started on Friday when the suspect allegedly stole a car in downtown Pittsburgh and drove it to a McDonald’s on Frankstown Road, crashing into another car. The driver of the damaged car called 911 and followed the suspect. Police then caught up with the stolen car and followed it.
Police said the suspect led police on a chase right around lunchtime at the busy Penn Hills Shopping Plaza, where the suspect crashed into several more parked cars. The chase continued down Rhodi, Jefferson and Key streets and into the Bryant Street neighborhood. The suspect then jumped out of the car on Bryant Street and ran toward the woods, where police eventually lost sight of him.
The suspect reappeared on Knickerbocker Street, where he unknowingly asked an off-duty police officer for directions. The officer knew something was wrong because the suspect was covered in mud. The officer identified himself, called for help and held the suspect until police got there.
Penn Hills Police Chief Howard Burton said the suspect is a runaway from Philadelphia, where he has warrants out for his arrest.
The teen is being held at the Schuman Juvenile Detention Center.
Cox Media Group
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