The man accused of stealing an MDOT State Highway Administration vehicle Friday evening has been identified as 27-year-old Flavio Cesar Lanuza of Laurel.
Following a police pursuit on Friday that spanned from Prince George’s County to Montgomery County, Lanuza faces charges of vehicle theft and first-degree assault, with further charges anticipated.
According to a press release from the Maryland State Police, the incident unfolded when troopers responded to a hit-and-run crash involving four vehicles at the inner loop of Interstate 495 at the Greenbelt Metro Station on Friday evening. The driver of a Ford Ranger involved in the crash fled the scene, drove into the I-495/I-95 Park and Ride lot, and stole an SHA vehicle after exiting his own. Subsequently, a chase ensued where Lanuza struck numerous vehicles before being apprehended in White Oak.
The pursuit involved multiple law enforcement agencies, including troopers from the Rockville, Forestville, and College Park barracks, as well as Maryland State Police and Montgomery County Police. The Maryland State Police Aviation Command also contributed to the search efforts.
As a result of the chaotic events, several individuals, including a civilian and two law enforcement members, sustained injuries and were transported to local hospitals. Lanuza was arrested at the scene and taken to Suburban Hospital for treatment.
The investigation into the incident, which involved a total of 13 vehicles being struck, remains ongoing, as authorities work on finalizing charges against Lanuza.
Maryland State Police Graphic