Man steals from Walmart, leads Cedar Rapids Police on dangerous chase

CEDAR RAPIDS – One man is in custody after he reportedly stole from Walmart, assaulted an employee, and led officers on a chase along I-380 in Cedar Rapids.

Authorities were called to the 2600 block of Blairsferry Road NE at Walmart East for reports of a theft in progress.

When they arrived on scene, the suspect, Charles Ford rammed his vehicle into a police squad car, injuring two officers.

Ford then led officers on a pursuit along I-380 southbound. Officers reportedly saw the suspect trying to ram other vehicles along the interstate.

Officers continued to follow the suspect after he exited near 1st Ave. East. The chase ended in the 2200 block of Grande Ave. SE.

The suspect drove his vehicle into the side of a garage.

After fighting with officers, Ford was taken into custody.

The two officers injured in the pursuit were taken to Mercy Hospital with moderate injuries.

Ford did have a warrant for his arrest, along with charges stemming from the theft and pursuit.

Final charges are pending at this time.