Michigan State Police uses PIT maneuver to stop stolen pickup on I-75

A police chase across two Michigan counties ended with the arrest of a 27-year-old man from Alma Sunday night.

According to authorities, the suspect attempted to carjack a vehicle at a gas station in southern Otsego County, when the driver - who had a concealed pistol license - presented his gun and the suspect fled. Police said the suspect found an unlocked pickup truck in the parking lot with the keys inside and fled.

After the owner of the truck called 911, a description of the vehicle was sent out to police, and a Michigan State Police trooper from the Gaylord Post found the vehicle driving northbound on I-75. Police said a pursuit started after the vehicle did not stop when the trooper turned their lights and siren on.

Police said stop sticks were deployed in an inactive construction zone near Hebron Town Hall Road, where deputies from the Cheboygan County Sheriff’s Office joined in on the pursuit.

The pursuit stopped after the trooper performed a PIT maneuver, which disabled the vehicle just south of Mackinac City.

The suspect was arrested and lodged at the Otsego County Jail on charges of attempted carjacking, unlawful driving away of motor vehicle and habitual offender fourth offense.

He will also be facing charges of fleeing and eluding in Cheboygan County.