A 12-year-old girl found herself in the hospital after a suspect in the theft struck her with the stolen vehicle. Tacoma Police have now released new dashcam footage of the tense moments leading up to the suspect's apprehension, identified as 26-year-old Tyshawn Smith.
The incident occurred last Wednesday evening at approximately 8:40 p.m. after the young girl's mother stopped her SUV outside a friend's residence on South K Street. As reported by FOX 13 Seattle, court documents allege Smith jumped into the vehicle and, as he made his getaway, struck the child who was disembarking at the time. "It’s unfortunate that this happened," noted a neighbor, a sentiment that may echo throughout the community, given the distressing nature of the crime.
A pursuit ensued after officers located the stolen vehicle near Pacific Avenue and 38th Street, leading them through parts of the city. As detailed by KING 5 News, after an attempted PIT maneuver failed to stop the suspect, the chase ultimately concluded with Smith crashing along South Wright Street, where he was taken into custody.
Upon searching the vehicle, a firearm with a loaded magazine was uncovered, adding to the gravity of Smith's charges. The young victim, having been transported to a local hospital with scrapes and bruises, has since been released and is anticipated to make a full recovery. Now facing a slew of charges—including first-degree robbery and assault—Smith has been ordered by a Pierce County judge to undergo competency evaluation. KOMO News also features the arrest footage captured by police dash cameras.
The Tacoma Police Department continues its investigation and calls on anyone with further information to step forward.
