Chaos erupted on the Interstate 5 during Monday's rush hour when a man, accused of operating a stolen van, crashed into several vehicles in North Portland before being apprehended by law enforcement officials. The driver, identified as 33-year-old Ryan Anthony Salt, initiated a calamitous escapade around 5 p.m. when transit police spotted the stolen vehicle near the Delta Park/Vanport MAX Station, reported KOIN.
In a pursuit that was less pursuit than a monitored flight, police opted not to chase Salt directly through the congested traffic but instead kept eyes on him from a distance the sheriff's office relayed to KGW, this measured approach was made as Salt reportedly weaved through congestion, using the shoulder and even venturing into oncoming traffic. His unpredictable maneuvers led him to crash into four vehicles eventually no serious injuries were reported from the collisions as per the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office.
Following the vehicular impact, Salt exited the stolen van and proceeded to dash across all lanes of I-5, prompting drivers to execute abrupt stops to avoid hitting him. His attempted escape on foot, however, was short-lived. Police successfully apprehended Salt near I-5 and North Marine Drive, with Portland police facilitating the eventual arrest KPTV detailed.
During the ensuing investigation, officers discovered a firearm, which they suspect belonged to Salt along with the charges for the wrongdoing on the interstate, Salt also faces accusations of being a felon in possession of a firearm according to authorities. He has been booked on multiple charges, including unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen vehicle, attempting to elude by vehicle, five counts of reckless endangering, four counts of failure to perform the duties of a driver, unlawful entry to a motor vehicle, attempt to elude on foot, and reckless driving as reported by KOIN. This incident is currently under thorough investigation by the Multnomah County Sheriff's Office and further details have yet to be released.
