Deputies use K9, drones to capture car theft suspect in Olympia, WA

A thrilling police chase in Olympia, Washington, ended with a car theft suspect found dangerously perched in a tree, 50 feet above a 200-foot cliff. The events began on Christmas Day when local police received reports of a stolen vehicle, leading to a foot chase that the suspect escaped. The following day, officers spotted another stolen car, leading to a traffic stop that the suspect evaded. After fleeing into a marsh, law enforcement utilized advanced resources, including an infrared drone and K9 units, to locate the suspect. He was ultimately found clinging to a tree branch, overlooking a significant drop to the water below.

Authorities confirmed he was the same individual involved in the Christmas Day theft. The Thurston County Sheriff's Office has booked him on probable cause of auto theft and eluding police, with bail set at $75,000. This incident underscores the ongoing issues surrounding vehicle theft in the region.