Catalytic converter theft at dealership turns into foot chase.

Catalytic converter theft at dealership turns into foot chase.

By Allison Scarbrough, Editor.

NEW ERA — A suspect involved in stealing catalytic converters off vehicles in a car lot at the Meyers Chevrolet dealership led police on a foot pursuit Sunday, July 18, shortly after 5 p.m. and remains at large, said Oceana County Sheriff Craig Mast.

The male suspect described as “tall and lean” was wearing a balaclava, which is a piece of winter headgear that covers the head and most of the face. The headgear was recovered by police, said Sheriff Mast.

The owner, Scott Meyers, saw some suspicious activity on the business’ surveillance system and called 911. The suspects were crawling under cars to remove catalytic converters and successfully removed one before police arrived.

When a Shelby Police Department patrol car rolled up to the scene, a foot chase ensued, said Mast. The pursuit involving a K-9 track lasted several hours. Also assisting were the Michigan State Police and the Department of Natural Resources. 

A white Chevrolet pickup truck was identified as a getaway vehicle, and the driver has been contacted, said Mast. Police recovered some of his tools, he said.

If anyone has any information about the crime, they are asked to call the sheriff’s office at 231-873-2121.

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