On Friday, October 3rd, at approximately 12:30 PM, a Whiteside County Sheriff’s Deputy observed a white minivan exiting the parking lot of Moto Mark’s Auto Parts in Morrison onto U.S. Route 30 at a high rate of speed and driving erratically.
The vehicle continued eastbound on Route 30, passing multiple vehicles. The Deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop; however, the driver failed to yield and continued eastbound at a high rate of speed.
As the vehicle approached the intersection of Lyndon Road, it made an abrupt U–turn and began traveling westbound on Route 30. While westbound, the driver continued to operate recklessly, swerving from side to side and posing a danger to the public. Upon re–entering the Morrison city limits, the Deputy terminated the pursuit.
Moments later, the minivan failed to yield to traffic at Jackson Street and U.S. Route 30, resulting in a rollover crash. During the crash investigation, it was learned the minivan had just been stolen from the parking lot of Morrison Sullivan’s.
The driver, 34–year–old Nathan Sandell, was arrested and charged with Aggravated Fleeing to Elude, Theft Over $500, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. Neither Sandell nor the sole occupant of the other vehicle involved in the crash sustained injuries. Sandell was transported to the Whiteside County Jail, where he awaits a detention hearing.
The Whiteside County Sheriff’s Office was assisted on scene by the Morrison Police Department, Morrison Fire Department, and MCH EMS.
