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Hit and run driver nailed by cops after smashing into cars across Hill – UPDATE

A driver speeding across Capitol Hill after hitting a car near 20th and Madison was finally apprehended following a short foot chase after hitting another vehicle near Boylston and Republican, according to the police radio scanner report from our partners at Central District News. In between, several other vehicles were also damaged, according to radio chatter. We’ll check with SPD for more details on the damage and the apparent arrest.

An officer saw a white minivan fleeing the scene of the 20th and Madison accident around 11:48 AM. Minutes later, the report of the accident on Boylston came in, about a mile away from the original accident scene. Due to the speed the van was traveling at, police decided to not engage in a direct pursuit.

UPDATE 1:20 PM:
Here’s a new (scary) element to the story — the driver fled along Madison in the wrong lane. We received this eyewitness report from @zanarama:

glad they got that guy, he looked so calm flying down madison on the wrong side of the road.

We’ll talk with SPD shortly to find out more about charges the driver may face.

UPDATE 2:05 PM:
According to SPD spokesperson Mark Jamieson, the minivan was stolen and was also involved in another crash this morning in South Seattle prior to the driver’s dash across Capitol Hill. No specifics on charges yet but the car theft angle helps explain why the guy was in such a big hurry. Jamieson also said that there were no reports of injuries.

Thanks to Jeff for sending in this picture of what looks like the minivan from the incident. Your pictures and tips are so helpful — send them to [email protected] or call us at (206) 659-1919.

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jonglix
jonglix
14 years ago

I just saw (and heard and smelled) this van flying down my block about half an hour ago! He practically smashed straight through the mini traffic circle at 18th and Republican. The police were a couple blocks behind, not pursuing too recklessly. Glad they caught up with him!

noodler
noodler
14 years ago

Yeah, I saw him fly by on Harrison towards 12th this afternoon, followed soon after by a police car. Must’ve been just before they caught him. I was wondering WTF was going on and shocked he hadn’t crashed into anything else.

Woah
Woah
14 years ago

Oof. Finally thought to look this up. This guy almost ran me over at 22nd and Thomas while I was crossing the street. Police were right behind him. He must have been cruising at least 70 down 22nd. Scary moment.