Springfield man arrested in Salem after crashing into tree at apartment complex

MARION COUNTY, Ore — A 21-year-old man from Springfield was arrested in Salem on Tuesday night after driving a stolen car through an apartment complex, crashing through a fence and striking a tree, according to the Marion County Sheriff's Office.

At 7:27 p.m., deputies attempted to pull over a driver, identified as Kevin Grieve, 21, of Springfield, after suspecting that the vehicle he was driving — a 1997 Honda Accord — was stolen. Grieve initially pulled over, but as additional law enforcement arrived, he abruptly sped off into the North Park Apartments.

As the driver attempted to flee, deputies chose not to initiate a vehicle pursuit through the apartment complex due to extreme risks to the residents. While fleeing, the suspect drove over the lawn and crashed through a fence and into the apartment complex, nearly striking two law enforcement officers.

The vehicle came to a rest after striking a tree, and officers on the scene were able to take the suspect into custody. There were no reports of injury to anyone involved.

Grieve is being lodged at the Marion County Jail on multiple charges including Attempted Assault II, Criminal Mischief I, Reckless Driving, Reckless Endangering, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, and Attempt to Elude.