Man Stole Pickup and Rammed Hazelwood Patrol Car, Injuring Officer, Police Say

A man who stole a pickup truck from a Quik Trip gas station rammed a police car, injuring a Hazelwood police officer, police said. See: Hazelwood Officer Injured In Pursuit of Stolen Car

David Michael Johnson, 46, of the 5000 block of Cote Brilliante Ave. in St. Louis, was charged Aug. 19 with stealing a vehicle, second-degree assault on an officer and resisting arrest.

Hazelwood police said a witness spotted Johnson stealing a 2010 GMC Sierra Aug. 17 at the Quik Trip at 7400 North Lindbergh Blvd. and called 911. Police said Johnson led officers on a high-speed chase, driving 20 mph over the speed limit, making erratic lane changes and running red lights.

Police said that while attempting to prevent his arrest, Johnson ran a red light and rammed the stolen pickup into driver’s side door of a patrol car, seriously injuring Officer John Anth.

Anth had to be extracted from his vehicle by the Hazelwood Fire Department. He suffered serious injuries and was hospitalized as a result of the collision. 

See: 8 Year Veteran Police Officer Recovering After Thief Rams Him With Stolen Truck

Hazelwood police said Anth’s doctors predict an eventual recovery.

Johnson is being held in the St. Louis County Justice Center. Bail was set at $50,000.