Police dog helps detain man after early morning car chase in Swindon

Police dog Vagus detained a suspect who reportedly fled from officers after his car collided with a tree

Police Dog Vagus
Author: Lizzie CouttsPublished 10th Mar 2026

A man has been arrested after a police pursuit in Swindon, which led to him being detained by a police dog.

The incident began at 2.35am this morning (March 10) when officers noticed a Mercedes C220 on Cricklade Road that drew their attention.

The car allegedly sped away upon noticing the marked police vehicle and a short pursuit followed.

Wiltshire Police said the police dog, called Vagus, was deployed after the driver of the Mercedes collided with a tree near St Marks Recreation Ground and then reportedly fled the scene.

Vagus successfully located the suspect and detained him using a ‘stand-off’ manoeuvre, which controls the subject without biting.

The 25-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of dangerous driving, failing to stop for police, driving without a licence or insurance, and theft of a motor vehicle.

He remains in custody for questioning.

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