Two 14-year-olds from Atlantic City were arrested after the stolen vehicle they were driving overheated, police said.
Officers Troy Grams and Michael Regalbuto saw the Kia Rio traveling around the 1200 block of Drexel Avenue at about 2:20 p.m. Friday, Lt. Kevin Fair said. The vehicle had been reported stolen earlier in the day.
The officers tried to stop the vehicle, but the 14-year-old driver sped off, leading the officers on a chase that went onto Route 30 westbound, according to the report.
As the vehicle left the city, the officers terminated the pursuit, Fair said.
But a short time later, the stolen vehicle was seen slowing down. Officers learned that the Rio had a history of overheating if driven at certain speeds, Fair said.
The driver and passenger of the vehicle exited the vehicle while it was still moving.
Grams chased the driver, who was apprehended with help from Officer David White.
Regalbuto and Officer Danish Mohammad arrested the passenger.
The driver was found in possession of four USB cables and two screwdrivers. He also had an active warrant, Fair said.
The passenger was in possession of a screwdriver. These items are common tools in the theft of certain Hyundai and Kia style vehicles, Fair said.
After the teens left the moving vehicle, it drifted off the roadway causing minor damage.
Both were charged with receiving stolen property, possession of burglar tools, resisting arrest, eluding, obstruction of justice, conspiracy and criminal mischief.
The driver was taken to the Harborfields Detention Facility.
The passenger was additionally charged with joyriding and released to a parent.
