Portland, OR – A routine traffic stop in Northeast Portland escalated into a dangerous confrontation Thursday morning after a man allegedly attempted to ram patrol vehicles while trying to flee deputies.
According to the Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office, the incident began around 7:20 a.m. Thursday, December 25, 2025, near Northeast Prescott Drive and Northeast 136th Avenue. Deputies located a vehicle parked in the area that was displaying stolen license plates.
During the investigation, deputies found Steven Thomas Fitzpatrick, 62, asleep inside the vehicle. Authorities said the vehicle’s VIN had been covered, raising additional concerns. In the interest of public safety, deputies used patrol vehicles to box in the car and deployed a tire-deflation device.
According to MCSO, when Fitzpatrick woke up to deputies announcing their presence, he moved into the driver’s seat, revved the engine, and rammed multiple patrol vehicles in an alleged attempt to escape. Deputies reported that the patrol cars sustained minor damage during the encounter.
Fitzpatrick was ultimately taken into custody without further incident, officials said.
He was booked into the Multnomah County Detention Center on two counts of attempting to elude in a vehicle. No injuries were reported.
The incident occurred in Multnomah County, within the Portland metro area, during the busy morning commute, prompting safety concerns for nearby residents and drivers.
The sheriff’s office praised deputies for their response, calling the arrest another example of proactive policing aimed at keeping the community safe.
Residents in the area are encouraged to report suspicious activity involving parked vehicles or stolen plates to local authorities.
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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