Auto theft suspect 
arrested after short chase

Source: ChicoER
Date: 2007/2/27

MAGALIA -- A crash with a tree ended the pursuit of an alleged auto thief Sunday night by a Butte County sheriff's deputy.

Mark Muhlbaier spotted a red Toyota MR2 with no license plate turn southbound on the Skyway from Hill Country Store shortly before 2 p.m. and followed it.

When the driver abruptly turned east onto Steiffer Road, the deputy attempted a traffic stop.

The Toyota driver sped up, reaching a speed of about 60 mph. on the narrow road. After seven-tenths of a mile, the driver lost control and hit a tree.

Paradise resident John Randolph Shanks III, 24, received minor injuries and was transported to Feather River Hospital.

He was arrested following treatment on suspicion of driving under the influence of a controlled substance, auto theft, possession of stolen property and evading a peace officer.

He was booked into the Butte County Jail in Oroville, with a no-bail parole hold placed on him.

Questions, comments and criticisms can be directed to: Jeff