Maryland State Police

By Zak Failla From Daily Voice

A stolen car, a loose dog, and a short police chase through Cecil County ended with one man in custody — and a very lucky pup safely scooped up by a passerby, according to Maryland State Police.

Troopers said the chaos began just after 3 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 11, when a man’s vehicle was stolen from outside a business on Fletchwood Road in Elkton while his dog was still inside.

Police said the suspect — identified as 24-year-old John Wells of Rising Sun — took off with the vehicle before troopers spotted him and attempted a stop. Wells allegedly led police on a brief pursuit before ditching the car and running.

That’s when the story took a turn for the dog.

According to state police, investigators believe Wells let the dog out of the vehicle while he was abandoning it. A nearby citizen picked up the loose pup and turned it over to animal control, where it was safely cared for.

Wells, meanwhile, was caught moments later and taken into custody without incident. Troopers said a loaded handgun was found at the scene.

Wells is charged with:

  • Unlawful taking of a motor vehicle;
  • Possession of a stolen firearm;
  • Animal cruelty;
  • Reckless driving;
  • Negligent driving;
  • Related offenses. 

He was taken to the Cecil County Detention Center, where police said he is being held without bond.