Man Steals, Crashes Car From Chatham Township: Police

CHATHAM, NJ — A man stole an Audi SUV on Tuesday from Chatham Township before crashing it in New Providence, according to police. Officers apprehended T. Jones shortly after he crashed the vehicle, according to Chatham Township Police Chief Thomas Miller.

Chatham Township police first observed a "suspicious" vehicle just before 4:30 a.m. Tuesday, Miller said. The vehicle traveled from Fairmount Avenue to Buxton Road with a green Audi SUV behind it, according to police.

Ptl. David Gallo pulled behind the Audi as it moved down River Road, but the driver took off and passed the other suspicious vehicle, Miller said. Gallo lost sight of it in New Providence.

But New Providence police told Chatham authorities that a vehicle crashed in town, and the driver fled on foot, according to authorities. Police apprehended Jones shortly after.

Additionally, someone called police at about 4:30 a.m. Tuesday to report their Audi SUV had been stolen from their Buxton Road driveway.

Jones, 19, was charged with theft of a motor vehicle, eluding and several motor vehicle violations. He was released on his own recognizance.

Chatham Township police reminded the public to lock their vehicles and remove ignition keys or FOBs when not in use.

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