Pursuit of green Honda ends with man’s arrest

Police in Kelowna arrested a suspected car thief after what they say was a “frightening experience” for people in the area.

On Monday, Dec. 19, just before 9 a.m., police were informed that a green Honda Civic had been stolen from the owner’s driveway on Coronation Street while it was left unattended to warm up.

Several hours later, the RCMP received multiple calls that a green Honda Civic was driving erratically in the downtown core of Kelowna, hitting curbs, almost hitting pedestrians and then was involved in a hit and run with a second vehicle.

At 5:20 p.m. an officer came across the occupied Honda and attempted to stop the vehicle. The occupant took off, almost striking the police vehicle in an effort to escape. A few moments later the suspect was again located while attempting to carjack another vehicle but once again fled in the Honda when police approached.

Officers relocated the driver who had lost control of the vehicle and boxed in the suspect with their patrol cars. Officers, with the assistance of the police dog service, were able to arrest the male subject after a brief struggle.

“This was a frightening experience for many who were out enjoying the holiday season and going about their everyday activities,” Const. Mike Della-Paolera, media relations officer, said. “The risk to the public was removed by the quick decision of officers to stop the threat.”

RCMP are recommending charges of possession of stolen property, robbery, flight from police and dangerous operation of a motor vehicle against a 29-year-old Kelowna resident.