A stolen Range Rover was driven on the wrong side of the road and towards oncoming traffic in a North East town before police brought it to a halt.
At approximately 11.40pm on Friday, October 23, a silver Range Rover was spotted on University Road in Stockton. The driver failed to stop for officers, and the vehicle reportedly sped through 30mph zones and was seen travelling on the wrong side of the road directly into the path of oncoming traffic.
Vehicle stopped and occupants arrested
The vehicle was eventually brought to a halt on Bishopton Road West, where further checks confirmed it had been reported stolen, according to Cleveland Police. One occupant was apprehended following a brief foot chase, while two others were arrested at the scene.
A search of the vehicle uncovered petrol canisters alongside two weapons, both of which were seized by officers, reports Teesside Live.
Charges and court appearances
A 19-year-old man was arrested and charged with aggravated vehicle taking, dangerous driving, failing to stop, no licence, and no insurance. A 17-year-old boy was arrested and charged with aggravated vehicle taking and possession of an offensive weapon. A second 17-year-old boy was also arrested and charged.
Both 17-year-olds were bailed in connection with separate offences of criminal damage and threats to damage a property, and one was also bailed in relation to drug driving. Both were remanded in custody to appear before Teesside Magistrates' Court.
A second 19-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, having articles with intent to destroy or damage property, criminal damage, and aggravated vehicle taking. He was bailed with conditions pending further enquiries.
Police comment
Detective Chief Inspector Chris Pringle from Stockton CID said: "Our officers are regularly patrolling the roads to act as a deterrent and to ensure any suspected criminality is disrupted at the earliest possibility. We have made several arrests in relation to this incident and have taken two weapons off the streets so they cannot be used to cause any harm in our communities. We continue to investigate this incident, and anyone with information is urged to contact us on 101, quoting reference number 212640."
