Atlanta police have made several pleas to people about leaving their cars running while unattended and this is another example of why.
Investigators said they were called out to a small strip mall along Peachtree Road in Buckhead after someone left their SUV running while they stepped into a store and someone stole it.
Police said the victim’s spare key and cellphone were still inside.
Officers said the victim was able to track their vehicle’s location through the cellphone.
Atlanta police said they coordinated with the Georgia State Patrol after they found out the stolen SUV was seen along Peachtree Circle.
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That was when APD put up their air unit to track the SUV while GSP troopers attempted to pull it over.
“The suspect driver initially refused to stop and led GSP units on a brief pursuit. During the pursuit, the APD air unit maintained a visual of the stolen vehicle from the air,” Atlanta police said in a Facebook post.
The heavy traffic in the area kept the suspect from driving too far and eventually, he pulled over and surrendered.
Police identified the thief as Nicholas Williams. He has been charged with theft by taking and fleeing/eluding police officers.
“We’d like to remind (the) citizens of Atlanta to always lock your doors, turn your vehicle off and take your keys with you when your vehicle is unattended. Let’s not provide criminals an easy opportunity to steal your vehicle or possessions left inside,” APD said.
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