Evansvillle, IN – A 37-year-old man was arrested on Saturday night after allegedly stealing a vehicle and evading police in the woods near Old Henderson Road.
The incident began shortly after 8 p.m., when the victim reported dropping their car keys in the parking lot of the old Diamond Lanes building. The victim soon received a call from a bystander who noticed the stolen car heading down Heidelbach Avenue.
Evansville police quickly responded and began investigating the scene. After reviewing security footage, officers were able to track the vehicle to a location near Old Henderson Road.
With the help of aerial drones and K9 units, law enforcement officers located James Whitledge hiding in the woods nearby. Whitledge was arrested without further incident and taken to the Vanderburgh County Jail.
He is currently facing charges of auto theft.
The Evansville Police Department praised the swift response of its officers and the successful use of technology in locating the suspect. Authorities remind the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity immediately.
