Hitchhiker steals log truck from Taco Bell when he can’t find a ride, Indiana cops say

A hitchhiker who couldn’t find a ride decided to steal a log truck from Taco Bell, Indiana police say.

It started a 20-mile chase on the interstate.

The owner of the log truck stopped at a Taco Bell for dinner Monday night in Scottsburg and left the vehicle running with the keys in the ignition, according to Indiana State Police.

Minutes later, the owner noticed the truck was missing — and headed north on Interstate 65, police said.

State troopers found the truck and tried to pull over the driver, but he kept driving north, police said. The driver appeared to be stopping at another exit before continuing to drive.

After about 20 miles, the hitchhiker stopped at an exit along I-65 in Seymour, police said.

Robert Lee Coffee, 29, of Indianapolis, was arrested. Police say he was trying to get a ride from Bowling Green, Kentucky, to Indianapolis when he stole the truck.

Coffee was charged with auto theft, theft above $750, resisting law enforcement and reckless driving.

The log truck was returned to its owner undamaged, police said.

This story was originally published January 21, 2020 at 11:41 AM with the headline "Hitchhiker steals log truck from Taco Bell when he can’t find a ride, Indiana cops say."