SHARE

Lodi PD: Moving Car Stops Safely After Thief Jumps Out

LODI, N.J. – A thief jumped from a stolen car while it was moving and was caught by a Lodi police officer, authorities said.

Elvi Molla

Elvi Molla

Photo Credit: MUGSHOT: Courtesy BERGEN COUNTY SHERIFF

Responding to the Robert Court owner’s call just after 1 a.m. Monday that someone had just taken his 2018 Subaru WRX, Officer Jesse Winfield tried to pull over the vehicle on Louis Street, Acting Police Chief Donald Scorzetti said.

The driver – identified as 26-year-old Elvi Molla -- kept going, though, he said.

After a few blocks, Molla opened the door and hopped out, then took off on foot on Union Street, Scorzetti said.

The driverless sedan kept going about a quarter mile on Union Street before coming to a stop without having hit anything or anyone, he said.

Winfield, meanwhile, chased down Molla.

A judge ordered that Molla remain held in the Bergen County Jail, charged with theft, eluding, resisting arrest and failing to stop. He also received several traffic summonses.

to follow Daily Voice Garfield-Lodi and receive free news updates.

SCROLL TO NEXT ARTICLE