RUNNELS, IOWA – An Iowa man fleeing in a stolen van rolled the vehicle as police searched, leading to his arrest and hospitalization.
A Runnells, Iowa man was arrested Tuesday afternoon following a single vehicle rollover accident involving a stolen van. On Tuesday, February 24th at 2:41 PM, Polk County deputies were dispatched to the 9900 block of SE Vandalia to a group home operated by Optamaie Life Services reference the theft of a motor vehicle following an assault. While deputies were heading to the home they were informed of a rollover accident near the 8800 block of SE Vandalia involving the stolen vehicle.
Deputies arrived at the accident scene and discovered that the driver had taken off on foot following the accident. Deputies were able to locate the suspect, identified as 42-year-old Xayapheth Thongsakounh of Runnells. Xayapheth was charged with Robbery 1st and two counts of Assault causing serious injury while participating in a felony.
Two female victims injured during this incident were transported to a local hospital. Their injuries and conditions are unknown at this time.
Xayapheth was also transported to a local hospital to be examined for possible injuries.
