NH Man Caught Trying To Steal Car Parts In Burlington, Police Say

BURLINGTON, MA — A New Hampshire man was arrested after police said he tried to take catalytic converters from vehicles at a used car dealership and garage on Route 3.

Damon Bonnell, 44, of Pelham, N.H., was arrested early Wednesday morning after leaving a vehicle that was fleeing police and running on foot, according to authorities.

Police were called to the dealership after the owner saw a break-in attempt on surveillance. Police said they interrupted an attempt to steal catalytic converters, part of exhaust systems that contains valuable metal that can be resold.

Multiple suspects fled in a vehicle, but police said Bonnell left and was arrested after a brief foot chase. Police are still searching for the vehicle and anyone else inside it.

"This incident is a good example of cooperation between police and a local business owner helping to prevent a more serious crime and additional damage to property," Chief Thomas Browne said. "I'd like to commend this business owner and thank him for his quick response."

Bonnell was charged with two counts of malicious destruction of property over $1,200, breaking and entering a motor vehicle at night and attempting to commit a crime (larceny over $1,200.)