Tag: Personal Injury Law

Boy’s Dangerous Joyride in Stolen Forklift Ends in Hour-Long Police Chase Ann Arbor, MI – In a shocking and dangerous turn of events, a 12-year-old boy took control of a stolen construction forklift and led police on an hour-long chase through the streets of Michigan. During the pursuit, the young driver struck 10 parked vehicles, leaving a path of destruction in his wake. According to the Ann Arbor Police Department, the stolen vehicle was a Construction Genie GTH-636 Telehandler, weighing up to 35,000 pounds, equipped with a forklift. The forklift was stolen from outside Forsyth Middle School, and it was later discovered that the vehicle had been left unlocked with the key hidden inside the cab. This incident was an extremely dangerous situation that could have resulted in serious injuries. The police department expressed their concern on Facebook, highlighting the potential risks involved in such reckless behavior. The series of events began when the authorities received reports of a juvenile attempting to steal a construction vehicle around 6:45 p.m. on Saturday. Soon after, officers spotted the 12-year-old boy driving the stolen forklift down the street without any headlights. With lights flashing and sirens blaring, officers pursued the vehicle at a speed of 15 to 20 mph. Dashcam footage captured the dramatic chase, with Ann Arbor police closely tailing the young driver. In the video, an officer can be heard cautioning others not to approach the forklift as the boy lowers the hooks. Meanwhile, police repeatedly urged the child to pull over, ensuring his safety and that of the surrounding community. At approximately 7:18 p.m., when the boy crossed the M-14 bridge and left the city limits, officers decided to halt the pursuit. The Washtenaw County Sheriff’s Office then took over the chase until around 7:53 p.m., when the 12-year-old finally came to a stop. The boy, whose identity remains undisclosed due to his status as a minor, was taken into custody and placed in a juvenile detention center that same Saturday night. Thankfully, no injuries were reported during this harrowing incident. The investigation into this incident is ongoing, as authorities work to determine the factors that led to the theft of the forklift and the subsequent chase. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of securing vehicles and equipment to prevent unauthorized access, especially when they pose significant risks if mishandled. At our personal injury law firm, we recognize the potential dangers associated with reckless behavior, especially when it involves minors. Our experienced team of attorneys is dedicated to protecting the rights of those affected by such incidents and seeking the justice they deserve. As the investigation unfolds, our thoughts go out to the community affected by this shocking event. We remain committed to providing support and assistance to those who require legal guidance during this challenging time. 858 Words

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