Suspect crashes into cop, then run over

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - A suspected auto thief was so desperate to get away from cops that police say he caused a series of crashes and landed him up in the hospital.

Police say Matthew McClellan, 20, was passed out cold in his SUV at a Smith’s gas station on Tramway Blvd., off Central Avenue in southeast Albuquerque. Smith’s employees called police around 9:30am, Friday.

When an officer arrived he tried to wake up McClellan. That is when he sped off.

Police said he first rammed into the officer’s car and then smashed into a second car while trying to get away.

Police said McClellan spun out of control and that caused the SUV to ramp a sidewalk. When the SUV finally came to a stop he ran off into a nearby neighborhood. The officer followed and began searching for the suspect.

Police said McClellan then ran out from between some houses right into the officer’s path and was hit.

Officer Robert Gibbs said SUV was reported stolen two weeks ago, on Veteran’s Day. Gibbs said the owners were relieved but didn't expect their family car would be caught up in all of this commotion.

“They told me they didn't think they were going to ever see their vehicle, considering its been two weeks 6.11 its been located its got some damage to it but of course they're going to get their car back,” Gibbs said.

McClellan was taken to UNM Hospital and is expected to fine. Gibbs said the people in the other car and the officers involved were not injured.

McClellan is expected to face a slew of charges including battery on a peace officer. A check of online court records showed a clean record for McClellan here in New Mexico.