LEWISTON, Idaho – A man allegedly stole a car and nearly ran over its owner before crashing and needing assistance to escape.
Lewiston Police Department said that on Jan. 5, around 6 p.m., officers responded to reports of a car theft near 100 Thain Road. The car owner reportedly had to jump out of the way to avoid being hit following the theft.
The owner’s son attempted to follow the stolen car and while officers were on their way, multiple 911 calls reported a rollover crash near 400 Thain Road. Officers found the stolen car damaged with the driver trapped inside.
The driver was identified as 40-year-old Nickalos Yates from Kent, Washington, was extricated and taken to the hospital by the Lewiston Fire Department.
Yates sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. The road was closed for nearly two hours during the investigation and cleanup of the debris.
Yates was estimated to be traveling at speeds of 100 miles per hour in a 35 miles per hour zone before the crash. He also struck a pickup truck in the incident causing minor damage.
The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Officer Leavitt at the Lewiston Police Department.
