SPOKANE VALLEY, Wash. — A stolen vehicle was recovered and three occupants were arrested after Spokane Valley Police Department deputies successfully stopped the vehicle with spike strips Saturday morning.
According to a release from police, deputies spotted a dark-colored vehicle speeding east on Sprague Avenue near Custer Road shortly after midnight Saturday. The vehicle, driven by a 17-year-old, had only one functioning headlight. When the deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the vehicle accelerated and the driver switched off the headlights in an apparent attempt to elude law enforcement.
Although not in pursuit, deputies were able to keep the vehicle in sight as it continued east on Sprague Avenue. The vehicle was later spotted near Appleway and Theirman.
A second deputy reported the vehicle passing Appleway and Vista Road at about 55 mph. A third deputy put down spike strips at Appleway and University Road, which successfully deflated the stolen vehicle’s tires.
The teen driver and a male passenger, identified as 26-year-old Robert Cross, fled on foot after stopping in a parking lot at Sprague and University. Two other passengers, 18-year-old Edward Ramey IV and an unidentified woman, stayed in the vehicle and were taken into custody without incident.
Following a foot chase, both the juvenile driver and Cross were detained. During the subsequent investigation, police found the teenager had dropped a firearm while attempting to flee. The vehicle was confirmed as stolen after checking its VIN, and the rear license plate was also reported as stolen separately.
The teenager was booked into the Spokane County Juvenile Detention Center on charges of attempting to elude law enforcement, unlawful possession of a firearm and obstructing law enforcement.
Cross was charged with possession of a controlled substance and obstructing law enforcement. He was transported and booked into the Spokane County Jail along with Ramey who had an outstanding felony warrant for his arrest.
The female passenger was released at the scene without charges.
