Police Department

Fugitive attempts to elude police in a stolen vehicle and causes crash

Officer B. Maplethorpe

Tuesday, September 10, 2019 at 3:34 p.m.

Today, September 9, 2019, at approximately 12PM, Officer Cunningham was patrolling the area of Sunset Highway and Russell St when he saw a suspicious vehicle leaving Motel 6.  Officer Cunningham ascertained the vehicle had been reported stolen and attempted to stop the vehicle.  The suspect, later identified as Clirim Ramushi (20), drove off at a high rate of speed Eastbound in the Westbound lane of Sunset Highway.  Officer Wilke was in the area and also attempted to stop the vehicle, however the suspect continued driving at reckless speeds on the wrong side of the road.  Ramushi endangered several other drivers with this driving behavior.  Officers Cunningham and Wilke, recognizing the danger to the public if they continued, ended their pursuit.  A very short time later, a unit from the Liquor and Cannabis Board notified police dispatch of a crash involving the suspect vehicle in the 1800 block of Sunset Blvd.  Witnesses indicated Ramushi had lost control of the vehicle, crossing the center median and striking another vehicle traveling on Sunset Blvd.

Ramushi fled the scene on foot, however the passenger from the victim vehicle gave chase.  Another alert citizen saw the incident and assisted with chasing Ramushi.  The pair were able to stop Ramushi near the intersection of N Maple St and W Pacific Ave where Officer Kester was setting up a perimeter to catch Ramushi.  Ramushi was taken into custody without further incident.  He was transported to the hospital with non-life threatening injuries. 

The victims in the other vehicle sustained minor bumps and bruises and were released at the scene.

Ramushi had an outstanding Department of Corrections warrant for Escape for which he will be booked into the Spokane County Regional Jail Facility.  He will also be charged with Possession of a Stolen Motor Vehicle, Attempt to Elude, Felony Hit and Run, Possession of a Controlled Substance, DUI, Reckless Driving and Driving While License Suspended 2^nd degree.

Ramushi is a three time convicted felon with convictions for Taking Motor Vehicle Without Permission, Vehicle Theft and Assault 3^rd Degree all from 2018.  He also has Misdemeanor convictions for Making False Statements to Law Enforcement and Minor in Possession of Alcohol.

This incident illustrates SPD’s commitment to the safety of the public.  SPD would like to thank the many witnesses who helped bring this fugitive into custody.  If anyone witnessed this incident, but has yet to speak with investigators, please call Crime Check (509-456-2233).

• Newer
• Older