By Joanna Putman
Police1
VANCOUVER, Wash. — Bystander video shows the moment a stolen semi-truck rammed two patrol vehicles in order to continue fleeing, KGW8 reported.
The pursuit began around 9 a.m. on June 10 in Fairview, Oregon, when Knight Transportation, the owner of the stolen semi, tracked the vehicle and alerted law enforcement to its location, according to the report. Once deputies with the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office located the semi, they attempted to box it in. The driver, however, smashed through at least two sheriff’s vehicles and fled.
“When the driver wanted out of our box that we had, the truck was plenty big enough to push our vehicles out of the way,” John Plock, public information officer for the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, told KGW8.
This video, guided by insights from risk management expert Gordon Graham, offers a detailed examination of best practices and safety considerations that can protect both officers and the public during high-risk vehicle pursuits.
Deputies deployed spike strips at multiple locations, deflating the semi’s tires as it continued to flee, according to the report. The semi’s front tires disintegrated, leaving the vehicle running on rims, with several rear tires also coming off.
The pursuit concluded just before 11 a.m. when the semi finally came to a stop in Vancouver, Washington, according to the report. The driver and a passenger then barricaded themselves inside the vehicle.
Washington State Patrol, Vancouver Police and the Clark County Sheriff’s Office responded to assist Multnomah County deputies. About 40 minutes later, both the driver and passenger exited the truck and were taken into custody without further incident.
The driver has been charged with assault, eluding law enforcement, criminal mischief, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen motor vehicle. The passenger was released without charges.
At least one deputy sustained minor injuries and was transported to a hospital, according to the report. No other injuries or additional vehicle damages were reported.