DENVER (KDVR) — A stolen Clear Creek County shuttle led law enforcement on a multi-county chase Friday, crashing into a police patrol vehicle before being abandoned in a Denver alley. The driver was not arrested.
Idaho Springs police released body camera video showing officers jumping out of the way when a stolen shuttle sped from the Clear Creek County roundabout onto the eastbound shoulder of Interstate 70 near Idaho Springs, eventually crashing into a patrol car.
The Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office said no officers were injured, but the crash damaged the unit and closed the eastbound lanes for about an hour.
Investigators tell FOX31 the incident began in Gilpin County as an attempted traffic stop involving a suspected stolen vehicle without plates. The driver allegedly fled into Clear Creek County, ditched the vehicle near Georgetown, then stole a county bus parked nearby and headed east on I-70.
At approximately 1:30 p.m., the shuttle was found abandoned near West 13th Avenue and Pecos Street in Denver, its rear tire shredded and the engine still running. Investigators told FOX31 they recovered both stolen vehicles.
Several agencies are now handling different parts of the case, which include:
- The Colorado State Patrol is investigating the I-70 crash.
- The Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office is leading the criminal investigation into the stolen vehicles and felony evaded vehicle, assisting Denver Police in recovering the vehicle.
- The Gilpin County Sheriff’s Office initiated the original stop attempt.
Timetable
According to law enforcement agencies, here is a timeline of key events during Friday’s incident:
- Around noon: Gilpin County deputies attempted a traffic stop on a stolen vehicle, with the driver allegedly fleeing toward Clear Creek County
- Georgetown area: Suspect allegedly abandoned stolen vehicle, stole Clear Creek County shuttle bus parked across street
- I-70 in Idaho Springs: Alleged stolen shuttle clips Idaho State Police patrol car, eastbound lanes briefly closed
- About 1:30 p.m.: The shuttle was found abandoned in a Denver alley near West 13th Avenue and Pecos Street. The shuttle’s rear tire was torn off, and the engine was still running.
- Mid-afternoon: Law enforcement agencies confirmed the recovery of both stolen vehicles, and the search for the driver continues
Investigators said they are reviewing the videos and working across jurisdictions to identify the suspect. However, they do not have the identity or description of the suspect at this time. Those with information regarding Friday’s incident are asked to contact the Clear Creek County Sheriff’s Office or the Denver Police Department.