Suspects injured in wreck

Monday, February 8, 2010
© Copyright 2013 Gwinnett Daily Post

SUWANEE -- Two suspected jewelry thieves were seriously injured Monday after crashing their car during an attempted getaway, police said.

According to reports, the alleged thieves, who have not been identified, fled the Mall of Georgia after a jewelry store smash-and-grab heist.

Authorities issued a lookout for the duo and their vehicle, police said, which was answered when the car sped past a Gwinnett County officer parked in the median of Interstate 85.

"The officer did not pursue but attempted to enter traffic to maintain a visual, at which time the suspects' vehicle lost control and struck the median wall," said Gwinnett police spokesman Cpl. David Schiralli.

The driver regained control and exited onto Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road, reports said, where the car struck a tractor trailer truck. Both passengers were taken to an area hospital, Schiralli said.

According to reports, officers found a duffel bag next to the suspects' vehicle that contained jewelry taken from the Mall of Georgia store.

Schiralli said that the investigation is ongoing and more details will be forthcoming.

Gwinnett Daily Post