SHAWNEE COUNTY—The search for a suspect who ran from a stolen vehicle crash last month ended Wednesday.
Steven M. Rule, 39, of Topeka, is in custody in the Shawnee County Department of Corrections, according to Deputy Abigail Christian.
On April 24, police were investigating a stolen vehicle report in Topeka, according to Topeka Police LT Manuel Munoz. Through the investigation, officers were notified that the vehicle was in the area of SW 17th and SW Wanamaker in Topeka.
Police located the vehicle and attempted a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle fled east on SW 17th and officers did not pursue. A short time later, a Shawnee County Sheriff’s deputy observed the vehicle, which had been involved in an accident at SW 17th and SW McAlister when it struck a tree.
Several individuals ran from the scene and the Deputy began to run after them. During the foot pursuit, the deputy heard shots being fired and summoned additional assistance. Law enforcement officers from multiple agencies including the Kansas Highway Patrol, and Washburn University Police, arrived on scene.
Two individuals were taken into custody at the scene including Bryan K. Carter, 44, of Topeka on requested charges of Possession of stolen property; value $1,500 to $25,000, Fail to stop at an accident; injury/damage over $1,000, Interference with law enforcement, Operating a motor vehicle without a valid license.
Laura M. Herde, 42, of Topeka, was arrested and booked into the SNDOC for a misdemeanor warrant out of Douglas County and two misdemeanor warrants out of Shawnee County.
Rule is in custody on requested charges of theft, failure to stop at an injury accident, duty of driver to provide certain information, driving while license suspended, interference with law enforcement and flee or attempt to elude.