MAN ARRESTED AFTER 40-MINUTE POLICE CHASE IN STOLEN AMAZON VAN

A 25-year-old man was arrested after stealing an Amazon delivery van and leading police on a 40-minute pursuit across Greater Manchester and Lancashire on Wednesday evening. Officers received a 999 call at approximately 6.23pm reporting the theft of the van, which carried parcels valued at £1,000. Police located the vehicle within 15 minutes and began following; when officers attempted to stop the van without initiating a formal pursuit, the driver accelerated and fled at speed.

During the chase from Wigan through Bolton to Chorley, the van reached speeds of approximately 100mph, according to police. The vehicle exceeded the speed limit on three occasions and struck a cyclist during the incident. The pursuit ended when the van crashed into pedestrian barriers and a vehicle stopped at traffic lights in Chorley. Police reported that the van caused significant damage to multiple pieces of street furniture. No serious injuries were recorded.

The suspect was arrested at the crash scene on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, failure to stop, driving under the influence of a controlled substance and possession of Class A and C drugs. He has been bailed pending further inquiries. Pc Nat Mannyng of the transport unit at Greater Manchester Police stated the driver showed disregard for public safety and that the incident placed pedestrians and other road users at risk. The force said it would continue taking robust action against those who endanger lives on roads.