Victoria's Secret Shoplifting suspects lead police on high speed chase spaning Mobile & Bald
MOBILE, Ala. (WPMI) – A police chase that started in Spanish Fort ended in a large crash in Prichard late Monday night. The pursuit and left an innocent driver injured, according to authorities. Police said the chase began after a group of women were allegedly caught shoplifting at the Victoria’s Secret at the Eastern Shore Centre.
At around 8:15 p.m. Monday, police said they spotted two women leaving the lingerie store with their arms full of clothing. Authorities stated a beige Chevrolet Malibu was waiting for the women. When the officer attempted to pull the car over, Police Chief David Edgar said the driver took off.
“They went across the I-10 Bay Way, exited there on the causeway at the Bankhead Tunnel and went across the Cochran Bridge and then into Prichard and Mobile,” said Spanish Fort Police Chief David Edgar.
The car with four women fled police on a high speed chase. He claims police were travelling more than 100 mph at one time.
“It ended with a crash when they ran the red light on St. Stephens road in Prichard Avenue,” said Chief Edgar.
At least three cars were involved in the crash in Prichard, including a Mobile Police car.
Nicole Draine saw the crash just outside her job.
“I think is ridiculous and sad and something should be done about it,” said witness Nicole Draine.
Two suspects and another innocent driver were taken to the hospital.
Jaqayla McCants,21, of Prichard was charged with theft of property first.
Siyunia McCants, 21, of Mobile was charged with theft of property first.
Katrina Ankum, 23, of Prichard was also charged theft of property first.
Brittany Moore, 19, of Mobile was the driver, according to police. She is charged with theft of property first, attempting to elude, and reckless endangerment.
Local 15 News asked Chief Edgar if the crime warranted a chase.
“Well to have a felony being committed right in the presence of an officer, so he was within our policy to continue a pursuit,” said Chief Edgar.
Police determined about $3,000 worth of clothing was stolen. Edgar said it is up to the officer to decide whether to pursue a suspect. He said officers take weather and road conditions into consideration.
Mobile Police claim they assisted with the chase. Prichard Police claim they only responded to the crash.
According to Edgar, Moore is still in the hospital. Authorities will arrest her once she is released. Spanish Fort Police believe Jaqayla McCants is a suspect in two other felony thefts at the Eastern Shore Centre.
Police expect to press more charges.