ELLENWOOD, Ga. — Monday evening, an Atlanta police car crashed on Interstate 675 after a wanted man reportedly stole the marked patrol vehicle and drove it into Clayton County.
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Atlanta police said officers were dispatched around 5:17 p.m. to 2029 Thomasville Drive SE regarding a wanted person who was reportedly armed with a firearm.
While officers were investigating, police said the suspect, identified as Phelan Thorpe, 30, was able to steal a marked Atlanta Police patrol vehicle parked outside the location.
Thorpe then drove the patrol vehicle into Clayton County, where he crashed into a tanker truck.
The crash happened on I-675 southbound, south of Forest Parkway, near exit 5.
Thorpe was taken into custody without further incident. Police said there were no reported injuries to citizens or officers.
Thorpe suffered minor, non-life-threatening injuries and was taken to a hospital. Police said he was alert, conscious and breathing while being transported for further medical attention.
All southbound lanes in the area were closed following the crash.
A slew of emergency vehicles, including fire engines and ambulances, responded to the scene.
Police said the information released is preliminary and could change as the investigation continues or new information becomes available.
Channel 2 Action News has a crew headed to the scene. We’ll have the latest on WSB Tonight at 11 p.m.
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