A wild police chase in Washington state took a chaotic turn when a suspect was seen on video allegedly throwing a chainsaw at officers during a high-speed pursuit.
This incident kicked off just before midnight on April 19, when a woman reported her car stolen from an apartment complex in the Parkland area. A K9 officer spotted the driver soon after, but when a traffic stop was initiated, the driver chose to speed away instead.
According to police, there were two suspects in the stolen vehicle as it sped south on Interstate 5. The unfolding pursuit was captured in real time, showcasing how quickly things escalated.
In the early moments of the chase, speeds approached 70 mph, with one deputy noting that traffic ahead was minimal. However, the situation grew more dangerous when a passenger began throwing items out the window. Radio chatter reflected the chaos, with one deputy exclaiming, “I just threw a chainsaw,” and advising others to “keep your eyes open.”
Investigators later reported that the passenger also discarded rope and climbing gear onto the roadway, increasing the risk for the pursuing officers.
The chase continued toward Joint Base Lewis-McChord until the stolen vehicle became ensnared near a roundabout.
As the pursuit reached its climax, officers could be heard informing each other that the suspects had exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Quick to react, the deputies surrounded the area, with one describing the driver’s attire: “black pants and a white shirt.”
In the heat of the search, a K9 unit was deployed, but not before an officer issued a blunt warning: “My dog will find you and bite you.” This command was recorded as a way to encourage the suspect to surrender.
After a short pursuit, the K9 successfully located the passenger. Video footage captured the tense scene as officers ordered the suspect to put his hands up and lay down. He was later taken into custody.
A 31-year-old passenger was sent to the hospital for treatment after being bitten by the K9. He is expected to face various charges, including first-degree assault for throwing the chainsaw, as well as possessing tools for auto theft and attempting to evade capture.
The 28-year-old driver, who evaded initial capture, was later found by military police on the base and taken into custody as well. He faces charges for fleeing law enforcement and vehicle theft.
