If it runs and drives, there’s a likelihood someone will use it to run from the cops. In a prime example of silly decision-making, a car thief attempted to lose the police in a stolen Sacramento-area shuttle for senior citizens and other qualifying riders. Needless to say, the police chase didn’t end well for the shuttle’s thief. 

A Sacramento thief led police on a wild car chase. Not in a stolen SUV, but in an ill-gotten shuttle for seniors and disabled persons

It’s not clear why a car thief would target a SacRT Flex shuttle. It’s not fast. A thief won’t be able to fit much inside the vehicle. And with easily visible blue-and-black markings, it’s not exactly inconspicuous. 

Be that as it may, the California car thief stole the SacRT Flex minivan, whatever the reason. Police caught wind of the theft and initiated a chase to stop the van driver.

Not long after the police chase started, disaster struck. The SacRT Flex van was on its side in a pile of broken safety glass. Unfortunately, the head-scratching police chase resulted in a multiple-car crash. At least four vehicles were involved in the wreck, with at least one reported injury. 

SacRT Flex is a new transit service in the Sacramento area. The California organization employs specially-equipped Toyota Sienna minivans to provide “limited subsidized neighborhood shuttle services for a limited group of qualified riders, including seniors (age 62+), low-income individuals, and persons with disabilities,” per the Sacramento Regional Transit page.

What it isn’t, however, is a solid getaway car for a car chase. Even in standard form, a late-model Toyota Sienna produces 245 horsepower and sends its power to the front wheels. At over 4,600 lbs, it’s hardly a performance car. Make no mention of the extra equipment for the shuttle.