A chaotic scene unfolded at a Salt Lake City gas station when a suspect in a stolen vehicle backed into a gas pump, causing a fire. KUTV reported that the incident started when a Salt Lake City police officer, patrolling near 400 S Redwood Road on Saturday, spotted a vehicle that they recognized as stolen at a Maverik gas station. The officer attempted to intervene, which is when the driver of the stolen vehicle reversed, crashing into a gas pump, the collision resulting in a significant blaze that rapidly engulfed the car.
Lt. Leigh Willis of the Salt Lake City Police described the series of events to Gephardt Daily, revealing, "When the officer attempted to stop the car, the driver put it in reverse, ran into the gas pump, which ignited the gas pumps." The suspect did not cease in impulsive decision-making there, instead disembarking the now flame-engulfed vehicle to attempt escape on foot; however, the individual was apprehended roughly a block away from the original scene of vehicular chaos.
The Salt Lake City Fire Department was swift to respond, arriving on the scene to douse the aggressive flames that had consumed both the vehicle and the gas pump. According to official communications, there were fortunately no injuries reported as a result of the incident. As noted in the coverage by FOX 13, the gas station and adjoining store were promptly evacuated, ensuring the safety of all present at the time.
