Hillsborough County, FL – A quick aerial response helped deputies catch a suspected car thief near Lithia Pinecrest Road and Bloomingdale Boulevard this week.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, deputies responded on October 10, 2025, after a vehicle was reported stolen. The agency’s aviation team spotted the suspect shortly after and guided ground units to the scene.
Deputies say the suspect allegedly tried to flee but was arrested about a block away from where the stolen vehicle was recovered.
The suspect, identified as Chad McKee, 33, has been charged with Grand Theft Motor Vehicle and Resisting an Officer Without Violence, according to the sheriff’s office.
Authorities did not report any injuries during the arrest. The Sheriff’s Office credited coordination between the aviation and patrol divisions for the swift resolution.
Residents in the area said the incident briefly increased police presence near the intersection Thursday evening.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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