COLUMBUS, Ind. – An Austin man is in custody for auto theft and leaving the scene of an accident after an SUV was allegedly stolen from a local gas station.
At 9:25 a.m. on January 15th, 2025, The Columbus Police Department (CPD) was called to a gas station in the 4000 block of 25th Street on Wednesday at around 9:30 a.m. after a man was seen stealing the vehicle from the parking lot. The owner told officers that he left the SUV running with his handgun inside when he went into the gas station.
While inside, he saw a man get into his car. The owner ran out and attempted to stop the theft, but the suspect drove away and struck a pillar as he exited. A short time later, officers located the stolen vehicle in the 3200 block of Flintwood Drive with the firearm still inside.
Brandon McIntosh, 27, was found walking in the area and was identified from the gas station video as the suspect who supposedly stole the Pilot.
CPD also located a car on Lincoln Village Drive that was stolen earlier this month from the 2100 block of Pennsylvania Street. That vehicle had been left running outside while it warmed up when it was stolen. Based on video and witness statements, investigators believe McIntosh also stole it.
McIntosh remains in the Bartholomew County Jail on the preliminary charges of theft of a motor vehicle (level 6 felony) and leaving the scene of an accident (class A misdemeanor).
CPD Public Relations Officer Skyler Berry says, “These incidents are good reminders to lock our vehicles, and never leave a firearm unsecured. Remember: Hide it. Lock it. Keep it.”
- Hide or remove valuable items from your car
- Lock your doors with the windows closed when your car is unattended
- Keep your car keys with you when leave it
