Carjacking, High Speed Chase Near Lindale Mall

Marion Police acted swiftly to stop an attempted armed carjacking, one which could have turned deadly on Thursday afternoon near Lindale Mall.

According to Marion police and Iowa's News Now, a suspect wanted on a parole violation is in custody Thursday night after allegedly firing a stolen gun while trying to steal a car.

On Thursday afternoon authorities were looking for 38 year old Christopher Daniel Taylor, who was wanted on a parole violation. Around 1:32 p.m. working with Linn County Sherriff's and Cedar Rapids police, Marion police were alerted that a red truck had been stolen from the 1200 block of A Avenue in Marion by a man matching Taylor‘s description.

A short time later Taylor picked up an acquaintance, 30 year old Courtney Marea Smith. After being spotted, Taylor and Smith led police on a high-speed chase westbound on Highway 100, eventually ending up going the wrong way into the eastbound lanes of Collins road near Lindale Mall.

Cops in vehicle pursuit then forced the pair to stop near the mall. As the car chase terminated, the two split up on foot, tearing off into opposite directions.

At this point Taylor then attempted to carjack a vehicle from a victim in the shopping area parking lot. Taylor allegedly was brandishing a weapon which police say was discharged during the carjacking. No one was injured by that shot.

Shortly after, still on foot with cops in pursuit, Taylor then attempted to carjack another vehicle, again by pointing the gun at the car’s driver.

Police finally apprehended Taylor around 2:00 p.m. on Lindale Drive. Smith was picked up in the vicinity of Lindale Mall about five minutes later. The gun was also recovered.

Smith has been charged with theft first, interference with official acts, possession of a controlled substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. Taylor was jailed on the parole violation.

Marion police would like to ask the public’s help to identify the carjacking victim who was driving a dark colored car that Taylor attempted to steal. Police ask if you know who this individual is, to please contact the Marion police at 319-377-1511.

Source: Marion Police, Iowa's News Now