WELLINGTON COUNTY – After a “lengthy” search that included the canine unit and OPP helicopter, local police have arrested and charged a Sarnia man accused of vehicle theft.
A second suspect remains at large.
On July 26 at about 1:45pm, Wellington County OPP officers responded to a truck fire on Guelph-Nichol Townline in Guelph-Eramosa Township.
Police say the truck was reported stolen the previous day in Oxford County.
“As officers were investigating the first incident, they spotted a second stolen pick-up truck not far from the original scene,” police stated in a press release.
“Police attempted to stop the stolen vehicle on Conservation Road in Guelph-Eramosa Township, but the driver fled the scene.”
At about 6pm, police responded to a report of a suspicious person in the area of the Eramosa-Garafraxa Townline in Centre Wellington Township.
When officers arrived, two suspects fled on foot and police recovered the second stolen truck, OPP officials say.
Police contained and searched the area with the assistance of the Wellington County OPP Canine Unit, the Emergency Response Team and an OPP Aviation Services helicopter.
“Following a lengthy search, one suspect was located and taken into custody without incident,” police stated.
“A second suspect remains outstanding. At this time, there is believed to be no threat to public safety.”
Alexis Reilly, 36, of Sarnia, was charged with flight from police, possession of property obtained by crime, failing to comply with a probation order and driving while suspended.
He was held for a bail hearing.
Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact the Wellington County OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip on-line at www.csgw.tips. Tip providers may be eligible for a reward from Crime Stoppers of up to $2,000
