Michigan man allegedly stole school bus, drove up to 70 mph to evade police

A Michigan man has been arrested after he allegedly stole a school bus from a Catholic school and led police on a chase.

Around 11 a.m. on Dec. 28, cops were told to be on the lookout for a stolen school bus, which was believed to have been stolen from St. Mary’s High School in Monroe, Michigan, according to the Monroe County Sheriff's Office.

A deputy saw the stolen school bus and tried a traffic stop, but the driver failed to pull over and sped up to avoid capture, reaching speeds of up to 70 mph, according to the sheriff's office.

The pursuit continued through Summerfield and Ida Townships in Michigan until deputies surrounded the bus.

The driver refused to come out of the vehicle, locking the school bus’s door, according to the sheriff's office.

Responding deputies forced the door open and took the suspect into custody without further incident.

The 52-year-old suspect from Ypsilanti, Michigan, was the sole occupant of the bus. His name has not been released. He was placed under arrest at the scene and transported to Monroe County Jail.

Police say alcohol appears to be a factor in the incident.

There was no property damage or injuries during the pursuit.