Police: Teen happens upon theft, shoots at suspect

COLUMBUS, Ind. (WISH) – Police in Columbus are looking for a suspect they think may have been hit by gunfire following a thwarted theft Thursday morning.

Officers were dispatched shortly after 4 a.m. to the 2200 block of Southeastern Boulevard about an attempted theft of catalytic converters.

When police arrived they spoke to a 19-year-old relative of the property owner who said he interrupted the theft. He said he heard a noise outside and found a suspect underneath a vehicle.

Shortly after the suspect fled on foot, the teen reportedly discharged a weapon at the suspect, who jumped into the bed of a white pick-up truck that left the area.

Police say evidence at the scene indicates the suspect was hit by gunfire. The suspect is described as a white man, wearing blue jeans, a light colored sweatshirt with an unknown design on it and a light colored stocking cap.

Anyone with information should contact Sgt. Tom Foust at 812-376-2642 or Detective Brian Plummer at 812-376-2626. Tips and information can be left anonymously.