Collierville, Tennessee, saw an intense and dangerous chase on Friday when three suspected shoplifters tried to escape after stealing from a Target store. The drama unfolded on busy Poplar Avenue, where the suspects’ SUV crashed into several parked cars during their attempt to get away. It was like something straight out of an action movie, with police officers surrounding the car, guns drawn, ready to make the arrest.
Brie Hoskins, a local witness, said her adrenaline was rushing as she watched the scene unfold. “It was not a normal occasion, especially for this part of town,” she said, still shocked by what she saw. The suspects, after stealing from Target, rammed their way through the parking lot of Academy Sports, hitting multiple vehicles as they tried to escape.
Collierville Police quickly took action, following the suspects as they sped off. Within minutes, they managed to stop the SUV about a block and a half away. The driver, identified as Robert Smith from Memphis, was arrested and is now facing a long list of serious charges, including shoplifting, reckless driving, and assault on a police officer.
Chief Dale Lane of the Collierville Police Department spoke out about the event, warning criminals that their actions won’t go unpunished. “We’re going to keep our community safe,” he said firmly, reminding everyone that crime, especially organized theft, is being taken seriously in the area.
The chase wasn’t without its risks. While no officers were hurt, one civilian did suffer non-life-threatening injuries after the suspects hit their car. Chief Lane offered prayers for the injured person and made it clear that anyone thinking about committing crimes in Collierville would face the consequences.
The suspects’ actions were a stark reminder of the region’s ongoing struggles with organized crime and theft rings. But Chief Lane made it clear: Collierville is a place of order, and if you break the law here, you’re going to face serious trouble.
Smith, the driver, is currently being held in the Collierville jail without bond while he awaits a judge’s decision.
