Man arrested after 100mph police chase through Bolton, Wigan and Chorley
A stolen van was pursued for 40 minutes after officers were called to reports of a theft in Bolton
A 25-year-old man has been arrested after leading police on a 100mph chase through Bolton, Wigan and Chorley in a stolen van.
Greater Manchester Police said officers from its Transport Unit were called at around 6:23pm on Wednesday 12th August after a van containing around £1,000 worth of parcels was reported stolen in Bolton.
With help from the caller, officers located the van within fifteen minutes.
Pursuit through three towns
Police said the driver made off from officers after they attempted to stop the vehicle, prompting a pursuit.
Over the course of 40 minutes, the van reached speeds of around 100mph, more than three times the speed limit, according to police.
Officers said a cyclist was injured during the pursuit and significant damage was caused to street furniture.
No serious injuries were sustained, police said.
The pursuit ended after the van collided with a pedestrian crossing and a stationary vehicle, allowing officers to detain the driver.
A 25-year-old man was arrested at the scene on suspicion of theft of a motor vehicle, dangerous driving, failure to stop, driving under the influence of a controlled substance, and possession of Class A and C drugs.
He has been bailed pending further enquiries.
PC Nat Mannyng, from GMP's Transport Unit, said: "This was an extremely dangerous incident which saw a vehicle reaching speeds of 100mph through residential streets where families, pedestrians and other road users were going about their daily lives."
"The driver showed a complete disregard for public safety and innocent members of the public were harmed as a result of his actions."
"We will continue to take robust action against those who choose to put lives at risk on our roads, and we hope this outcome sends a clear message that these offences will not be tolerated."