Search Intensifies for Suspects Following Stolen SUV Incident
Kent County deputies are actively searching for two suspects who fled the scene after a stolen SUV was involved in a serious accident. According to the Kent County Sheriff’s Office (KCSO), multiple law enforcement agencies responded to the crash that occurred early Thursday morning at the intersection of East Beltline and Burton. The stolen vehicle, reported missing from Ada Township around 6:30 a.m., was eventually found near Centerpoint about an hour later.
Details of the Crash and Subsequent Pursuit
The stolen SUV was initially spotted outside Planet Fitness before it sped off, eventually running a stoplight at Burton Street and colliding with another vehicle. The crash caused the second vehicle to overturn, injuring a 25-year-old man from Grand Rapids, who was hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries. The collision also resulted in a broken utility pole, and dashcam footage of the incident has been released by the sheriff’s office.
Progress in the Investigation and Ongoing Search
After the crash, five suspects fled the scene, with one being captured by a civilian and handed over to authorities. Police managed to apprehend two more suspects, but two individuals remain at large. Among those arrested, three are teens—a 14-year-old, a 15-year-old, and an 18-year-old, with one suspect hospitalized. Deputies are continuing their efforts to locate the remaining fugitives. The KCSO has acknowledged the support from Michigan State Police and local departments in the investigation.
Rising Concerns Over Stolen Vehicles
This incident is part of a larger trend, with the KCSO noting an increase in stolen vehicle reports this year compared to the same period last year. So far, 187 stolen vehicle cases have been investigated in 2024, up from 178 cases at this time last year.