Spokane: On Sunday 6/23/24 about 3pm, police responded to a call of a carjacking at a park in the 2900 block of N West Oval St. where a female victim reported a man got into her car, after she stepped out, and took off dragging her behind
Washingtoner/10261903

~ On Sunday afternoon, police responded to a call of a carjacking at a park in the 2900 block of N West Oval St. According to the victim, a man had gotten into her car and drove off while she was outside of the vehicle. The victim also reported that she did not know the suspect and that her dog was still inside the car.

The patrol officers immediately sprang into action and located the vehicle driving in the area of E. Empire Ave. and N. Regal St. The suspect, later identified as 24-year-old Austin L. Hayes, attempted to flee from the police at a high rate of speed through city streets. During the pursuit, Hayes rammed into a patrol vehicle and continued to drive recklessly, hitting traffic cones and two parked cars.

Despite Hayes' attempts to evade capture, officers were able to stop his vehicle by performing a PIT maneuver. However, Hayes did not give up easily and ran towards the officers in an attempt to escape. The officers were able to apprehend him after a struggle.

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Hayes was arrested and booked into Spokane County Jail on multiple charges including Robbery 1st Degree Carjacking, Assault 2nd Degree – Intention to Commit Felony, Attempting to Elude Police Vehicle, Assault 3rd Degree, Resisting Arrest, Obstructing a Law Enforcement Officer, Operating a Vehicle with License Suspended, and 2 counts of Hit and Run Unattended Vehicle.

During his court appearance this afternoon in Spokane Superior Courtroom, Hayes' bond was set at $100,000 by the judge. The judge also noted Hayes' extensive criminal history with 17 prior convictions and deemed him as an ongoing threat to the community. His most recent felony convictions include 2nd Degree Possession of Stolen Property and Eluding.

The victim sustained minor injuries from being dragged by her car but did not require medical attention. The dog was also safely recovered from the vehicle. The police department commended the quick response and actions of the patrol officers in apprehending Hayes and preventing any further harm to the public.

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