UPDATE: Man Wanted for Auto Theft Captured

UPDATE: July 10, 2013 at 3:06 p.m.

The Washington's Most Wanted website reported that Pierce County Sheriff’s deputies arrested 30-year-old Justin Wetrich in Bonney Lake on Wednesday.

He was wanted by authorities for Attempting to Elude a Pursuing Police Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property in the 1st degree, Hit & Run, two counts of Taking Motor Vehicle without Permission in the 1st degree, and two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.

Original Post: June 28, 2013 at 11:36 a.m.

The Pierce County Auto Crimes Enforcement Task Force is attempting to locate auto theft suspect Justin Wetrich. 

A felony warrant has been issued for Wetrich’s arrest for Attempting to Elude a Pursuing Police Vehicle, Possession of Stolen Property in the 1st degree, Hit & Run, two counts of Taking Motor Vehicle without Permission in the 1st degree, and two counts of Unlawful Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.

On the afternoon of May 24, 2013, Wetrich was observed driving a stolen truck in the Parkland area; when detectives attempted to stop the vehicle Wetrich drove away in excess of 80 mph.  

He hit another vehicle and continued driving before eventually being detained by Sheriff’s deputies.

Wetrich later fled the hospital after receiving medical treatment for injuries suffered in the collision.

Justin C.R. Wetrich is a white male, 30 years old, 5’9” tall, 190 lbs., with blonde hair and hazel eyes. 

Wetrich has numerous tattoos including a large tattoo covering his chest.  

He is known to frequent the Bonney Lake, Prairie Ridge and South Prairie areas of Pierce County.

The Tacoma/Pierce County Crime Stoppers is offering up to $1,000 for information leading to Wetrich's arrest.

Anyone with information regarding Wetrich's whereabouts is asked to call the Crime Stoppers Tipline at 253-591-5959. All callers will remain anonymous.