SAN MATEO – Authorities over the weekend arrested a 53-year-old Hayward man on suspicion of stealing $1,000 worth of merchandise from a San Mateo store and threatening to pepper spray employees.
The incident happened around 1:30 p.m. Saturday at the Ross Dress for Less, located at 640 Concar Drive, the San Mateo Police Department said in a news release.
After he stole the merchandise and threatened the employees, the suspect got into a vehicle and sped out of the parking lot, according to police. Employees provided the license plate number to officers.
The suspect was spotted entering eastbound Highway 92 and driving recklessly, police said, adding that he did not stop for officers and led them in a short pursuit. The chase ended when the vehicle hit a guardrail and overturned, ejecting the suspect.
The suspect was treated for his injuries at an area hospital. Upon his release, he was booked into San Mateo County jail on charges of robbery, felon in possession of pepper spray, evading police, license plate fraud and driving with a suspended license.
All of the stolen property, which was valued at $1,072, was recovered, police said.
