An Altoona man was apprehended by Tyrone Police after a lengthy chase and a theft.
On Thursday at 1:38 a.m., Tyrone Police attempted to stop a maroon and silver Chevrolet pickup for unsafe speeds in connection with a possible theft in the Borough. When police attempted to stop the pickup, the driver of the vehicle drove over a grassy area near Burger King and fled officers on Route 453 toward Water Street.
When the truck reached Water Street, the driver did not stop at the intersection with State Route 22, went straight through and crashed in the river bed. The driver fled on foot and was not apprehended by officers. The truck was found to be stolen from Huntingdon County.
On Thursday at 7:11 p.m., Tyrone Police were dispatched for a theft. It was reported to police that an umbrella was stolen from the victim’s porch. A description of this individual was obtained and he was later identified as 19-year-old Thomas Wineland of Altoona.
Wineland was approached by officers at Reservoir Park. He told officers that his name was John and immediately fled on foot into the woods. Tyrone Police searched for Wineland. At that point, other calls began coming in about a suspicious male knocking at residents’ doors.
The investigation revealed that Wineland was headed to a residence on Riddle Avenue. Wineland was located there and officers entered with the owner’s permission. Wineland saw officers and ran out the back door after being ordered to stop.
Wineland was apprehended by Tyrone Police after a brief struggle with officers. One officer received minor injuries during the course of attempting to apprehend Wineland. The residents at the Riddle Avenue address did not know Wineland was wanted by police.
During the Police Department’s search for Wineland yesterday evening, the Tyrone Area School District activated a lockdown situation. Even though school was not in session, there were various Tyrone Area School District students returning from field trips.
Wineland is charged with receiving stolen property, fleeing and eluding police, resisting arrest and several traffic violations for the incident involving the stolen truck.
He is also being charged with receiving stolen property, resisting arrest and disorderly conduct in connection with the evening incidents.
When interviewed by police, Wineland did admit to both incidents.
This investigation is ongoing as far as any other crimes he may have committed at other residences.
