Suspected Car Thief on the Run

ROSEVILLE – On Sunday night a citizen returned his rental car to a local agency and discovered that the key drop box had been broken into, whereupon he promptly called the police, who arrived on the scene along with some of the rental agency’s employees.

Gary Lee Fowler

They confirmed, upon checking the lot, that six rental vehicles were missing.  A search of the area revealed that five of the missing cars were parked elsewhere in parking lots in the area.  A 31-year-old Citrus Heights woman was arrested near one of the stolen cars on suspicion of vehicle theft and possession of methamphetamine.

Further investigation revealed the identity of another suspect – Gary Lee Fowler.  Two nights later officers observed the remaining stolen vehicle being driven by a male near Loretto Way and Quail Circle.  As they followed the vehicle, the driver led them on a brief pursuit and then fled the vehicle on foot on King Road.

An extensive searching ensued that involved officers from Roseville, Rocklin, Citrus Heights, and Placer County, as well as helicopters from CHP and Placer County.  They unfortunately were not able to apprehend the suspect, whom they believe was Gary Fowler.

The public is asked to call Roseville Crime Stoppers (916)783-STOP if anyone has any information on Fowler’s whereabouts.  You may also go to www.roseville.ca.us/police and select the “submit a tip” tab, or text a tip to “CRIMES” (274637) and start your text with the word  “ROSEVILLE.”