Vernon shoplifter smashes into vehicles in failed attempt to flee

A Vernon shoplifting suspect is in custody after getting caught by staff in a failed getaway today.

RCMP say the suspect jumped into a vehicle and proceeded to smash into several others in the parking lot of a business in the 4900 block of 27 Street at around 9:30 a.m. today, Oct. 13, in a failed attempt to escape.

The suspect was being chased by employees at the business, according to an RCMP media release. RCMP do not identity the business or what item the suspect was trying to steal.

“When the suspect’s vehicle became disabled, staff were able to contain the man until frontline officers arrived to make the arrest,” Vernon RCMP media relations officer Const. Chris Terleski said in the release.

A 30-year-old Vernon man remains in custody as police continue to investigate.

No word from RCMP on what charges are being considered.

Anyone who may have witnessed the event, and have not already spoken to police, are to call Const. Freeling of the Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP at 250-545-7171.

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