Alleged Shoplifter Flees Store, Crashes into Tree

apprehended a shoplifting suspect who fled with merchandise on Wednesday and later crashed his car into a tree.

Police arrested David C. O’Connor, 26, 10 Rockland St., Wakefield, and charged him with operating to endanger, failing to stop for a police officer, receiving stolen properly and attempted larceny more than $250.

O’Connor reportedly tried to steal more than $500 worth of merchandise about 5 p.m. Wednesday. Store security approached O’Connor and he was reportedly confrontational.

O’Connor fled the store and drove away in a 2000 Oldsmobile with Indiana plates. A caller reported seeing him on Route 62, heading toward the center.

Officers headed to that area. When O’Connor saw the police, he reportedly turned around and turned onto Oakdale Road.

A short time later, the driver was in the area of Meade Road and Juniper Road, which is full of dead-ends. The driver ultimately crashed his car into a tree and police placed him under arrest. O’Connor was taken to Melrose-Wakefield Hospital where he was treated and released into police custody.