Medford, Ore — A car theft suspect wanted for a long time by police is finally in custody thanks to the help of some brave car dealership employees.
When Medford Police closed in on one of the car theft suspects he took off through this showroom, with a police detective in pursuit.
Employees here tried to stop the man, that’s when he pulled out a knife an started swinging, slashing the coat of one employee.
Medford Police say the suspect, Casey Tumey then ran out into the parking lot, and across busy Highway 62 with Lithia employees and a police detective in pursuit.
One employee caught up to Tumey but backed off after he was threatened with the knife.
MPD says the employees definitely helped apprehend Tumey, but warn cases like this case be very dangerous.
“I applaud the employees for assisting our lone detective who would have had his hands full if he tried to apprehend this guy on his own, but i also worry that an innocent person could be hurt by somebody who’s trying to get away from the cops for a stolen car,” said Lt. Mike Budreau.
A plainclothes police detective was able to arrest Tumey at the nearby Rogue Disposal Center.
The two others suspects in the theft were taken into custody but were released.
Tumey is facing several charges including assault in the second degree, along with his prior warrants.
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