Police: Man crashes stolen SUV after stealing cigarettes, alcohol from Portland convenience store

PORTLAND, Ore. (KPTV) - A man accused of stealing a large amount of cigarettes and alcohol from a convenience store was arrested after fleeing the scene in a stolen SUV, according to the Portland Police Bureau.

At about 10:44 p.m., officers responded to a convenience store in the 6500 block of North Greeley Avenue. Police say the suspect fled the scene in a white Lexus SUV which he stole after assaulting the driver.

The suspect was later found by officers and tried to elude but police say he crashed into a curb and tore off one of the SUV’s tires. The suspect then tried to drive on the rim but eventually jumped out and ran off on foot.

North night officers recovered car stolen in a carjacking. Suspect in custody for Theft 1, UUMV, PSV, Rob 3, Elude, Reckless and 2 felony warrants. Inside the car was located a large amount of stolen items. pic.twitter.com/357OmcsubE
— PPB North Precinct (@ppbnorth) March 21, 2024

Officers searched the area and were able to safely take the suspect, identified as 37-year-old Ryan Lee Poffenberger, into custody. The stolen merchandise and the SUV were recovered by police.

Poffenberger was booked into the Multnomah County Jail on numerous charges including unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen vehicle, first-degree theft, elude, reckless driving, third-degree robbery, and on outstanding warrants.

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