A late-night gas run in Manor turned into a two-city police chase Friday after officers say a teenage driver rammed a stolen car into a marked patrol vehicle at a gas station, then took off toward Elgin before finally being stopped back on U.S. 290. The driver was arrested later that night and now faces multiple felony charges, including evading arrest, unauthorized use of a vehicle and two counts of aggravated assault on a public servant.
Officers Spot Stolen Car at Busy Convenience Store
According to police, officers found the stolen vehicle around 9:53 p.m. at the Food Bucket convenience store at 15501 E. U.S. 290. They say the teen ran out of the store and jumped into the car. When officers tried to conduct a traffic stop, the driver allegedly hit a police vehicle, clipped the gas-station building, and then sped away, as reported by CBS Austin.
Chase Loops Through Elgin Before SWAT Called In
"The suspect did not comply with officer commands and refused to leave his vehicle," Manor police told CBS Austin. Officers pursued the car into Elgin and back into Manor, where they used tire-deflation devices to bring the vehicle to a stop near the Presidential Glen subdivision. When the driver still refused to get out, Travis County SWAT was called to the scene.
Standoff Ends in Arrest and Felony Charges
Police say the teen was finally taken into custody at about 11:20 p.m. Manor officers then filed several felony counts against the driver, including aggravated assault on a public servant, felony evading and unauthorized use of a vehicle. Authorities say the investigation is ongoing and have not released further information about possible injuries beyond initial reports.
Part of a Larger Spike in Vehicle Thefts
Manor police and nearby agencies have recently warned residents about a rise in vehicle thefts, often involving Hyundais and Kias, and have urged owners to contact dealerships about anti-theft software and security updates. Earlier coverage from FOX 7 Austin highlighted similar chase-related arrests and safety advisories from the department.
Anyone who has video or information about Friday night's incident is asked to contact the Manor Police Department or their local law enforcement tip line. This story will be updated if authorities release additional details.
