Stolen Renton Police SUV Located In Seattle

RENTON, WA — A police SUV stolen from Renton Thursday afternoon was found in Seattle 30 minutes later, according to investigators.

Before the patrol vehicle was taken, officers reported a "potential auto theft suspect," walking near a car dealership on Rainier Avenue South. The officers parked nearby and approached the man, hoping to speak with him. Police said the man did not cooperate and walked away. As the officers headed back to their patrol cars, a witness called 911 to say the man they were just speaking to had reached in the window of one of the vehicles, unlocked it and drove away.

A department spokesperson said the patrol vehicle was locked and running "as is common practice for officers in the event of a priority incident."

Police reported the theft, and notified the public on social media, saying several agencies were assisting in the search for the stolen vehicle.

Approximately 30 minutes later, the Seattle Police Department found the SUV on South Washington Street in the Pioneer Square area. Its location was confirmed by an on-board GPS system. Police said the suspect, a man in his 30s, was found a couple of blocks away and arrested on suspicion of felony theft.

Video shared on social media by KOMO News showed the missing unit parked on the street shortly after it was found. Investigators said a team from Washington State Patrol was headed to the scene to analyze evidence.

According to the Renton Police Department, all items inside the patrol vehicle are accounted for and there were no reports of injuries or damage during the time the vehicle was missing. Anyone who witnessed the theft, or saw the vehicle in transit, is encouraged to contact detectives via email.