ATV theft suspect drives into police officer in Hyvinkää

Yle reports that a suspected ATV thief drove into a police officer during a chase in Hyvinkää, injuring the officer.

East Uusimaa Police were called to Hakala shortly before 6pm on Monday after a member of the public reported seeing an ATV that had been reported stolen.

Police spotted the ATV on Riihimäenkatu, starting a pursuit. The driver initially headed towards Paavola and drove through red traffic lights.

The driver then continued towards the Sveitsi and Talvisilta districts, using footpaths, roads and jogging trails, according to police.

Police displayed a stop signal on the road between Koneenkatu and Läntinen Yhdystie. The driver did not stop but accelerated towards a police officer standing ahead. The officer attempted to stop the driver and was injured in the incident.

A police patrol later spotted the suspect fleeing on foot on Talvisillankatu. The suspect again ignored an order to stop and was eventually arrested in a nearby stairwell.

Police said there was heavy traffic and a large number of pedestrians on the streets during the pursuit, creating numerous dangerous situations.

The driver is suspected of unauthorised use of a motor vehicle, violent resistance to a public official, aggravated endangerment of traffic safety, driving while intoxicated and driving without a licence. The charges may be specified further during the preliminary investigation.