A Reading man is in custody after allegedly fleeing police in a stolen vehicle Wednesday morning, reaching speeds in excess of 125 miles per hour and leading authorities on a multi-municipality chase through northern Berks County.
According to Pennsylvania State Police, the incident began around 9:21 a.m. on June 25, 2025, when Muhlenberg Township officers attempted to stop a black Honda Odyssey in the parking lot of Walmart. The vehicle had no license plate and had been reported stolen from a dealership earlier that day.
The driver allegedly attempted to strike a Muhlenberg officer with the car before fleeing the area, prompting a pursuit. State Troopers from PSP Reading joined the chase as it continued through intersections along Route 222 and into Ontelaunee Township. Police say the suspect ran red lights, drove in opposing lanes, and ultimately merged onto US 222 North.
Troopers reported observing the vehicle traveling more than double the posted speed limit, reaching over 125 MPH in a 55 MPH zone.
The pursuit extended into Maidencreek Township, where police say the suspect ran several stop signs and drove through a privately owned wheat field near Pleasant Hill Road, causing visible crop damage.
State Police used a precision immobilization technique (PIT) to disable the vehicle after it traveled approximately one mile through the field. The driver was taken into custody without further incident and transported to the hospital for evaluation.
No injuries to officers, civilians, or the suspect were reported. The investigation remains active.
