Semi-truck parts thieves confess

LEIGHTON TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) - Two of three people accused in connection with stealing some semi-truck parts are in jail.

The third suspect is still sought by authorities.

This incident began around 1 p.m. Sunday at Advantage Truck Repair, 1172 147th Ave. in Leighton Township. An employee drove into the parking lot and saw three males stealing scrap metal.

As the employee called 911 and used his vehicle to block the suspects' exit, two of the suspects got into a van and tried to ram the caller's vehicle with their vehicle. The third suspect was left at the scene.

The suspects were able to drive away. The employee followed the suspects as they traveled at high speeds and cut in and out of traffic, police said, trying to elude the employee as they fled into Kent County.

Michigan State Police Trooper John Miller was able to intercept the suspects and took them into custody at the intersection of M-37 and 28th Street.

Dep. Daniel Forman of Kent County Sheriff's Department arrived at the scene and assisted in the arrest.

Assorted metal parts, including new semi-truck tire snow chains and a semi-truck fifth wheel coupling device, were recovered from the suspects' van. Both suspects confessed.

A K-9 unit from the Allegan County Sheriff's Department went to the business to search for the third suspect, but could not find him.