In a dramatic Sunday encounter involving a car theft at a QuikTrip on W. Franklin Blvd, Gastonia Police, with the assistance of their K-9 units, swiftly took action to apprehend the suspect, Wesley Scott Morton Jr. The father who reported the theft had stepped into the store with his three young children to make purchases, during which time his car was stolen, QC News reported.
Responding to the scene, officers quickly located the stolen vehicle near Collinston Drive and Hollyleaf Avenue. Morton fled into the woods when police arrived, leading to an intense pursuit through the challenging terrain. Despite a heatwave sending temperatures over 100 degrees, K-9 Max, alongside Cpl. Huneycutt, took upon the initial tracking efforts, said WSOC-TV.
However, with the heat bearing down, K-9 Max became fatigued and his tracking efforts were taken over by K-9 Bando and Cpl. Canipe, who continued the search with the same vigor. "When Max got tired, K-9 Bando took over tracking with Cpl. Canipe," as contained in a statement obtained by WCNC.
Ultimately, the steadfast K-9 Bando located Morton hiding behind a home. When officers made the arrest, the stolen car’s keys were found on Morton, confirming his intent with the vehicle. He's currently facing multiple charges, including felony motor vehicle theft. This resolution comes despite the punishing weather conditions that Sunday, proving the perseverance of the Gastonia Police and their K-9 companions in the face of adversity.
