NH Police Chase Ends In Man's Arrest

ROCHESTER, NH — A Portsmouth man was arrested Friday after police said he stole a car, led an officer on a chase then ditched the vehicle at a Walmart — leading to his capture. Calum Ryan (pictured), 20, faces multiple charges.

Police said Ryan stole a Toyota Camry from a Portsmouth driver and took it to Farmington. A witness called 911 and said Ryan was driving erratically, according to Rochester police Chief Paul Toussaint.

"The Farmington officer spotted the vehicle and got behind it," Toussaint said in a statement. "He immediately activated his blue lights and siren in an attempt to stop the vehicle. The vehicle initially pulled into the breakdown lane and drive slower, but then increased speed when it was obvious that the officer was attempting to stop it. The operator increased speed and the Farmington officer began pursuing the vehicle. He terminated the pursuit when the vehicle began driving at such a speed that it was endangering the safety of others."

Toussaint said his Rochester officers found the car abandoned at the Walmart on Farmington Road. A police dog tracked Ryan nearby and he was arrested, according to Toussaint.

Ryan was charged with receiving stolen property and driving without a license. He will likely face other charges, Toussaint said.

Photo credit: Rochester Police Department