Car theft suspect caught after crashing into tree in Salinas

A suspected car thief was on the run from police when he lost control and crashed into a tree in Salinas.

According to authorities, the car was stolen out of Monterey Wednesday morning after the owner left the keys in the ignition.

Marina police spotted the suspect first.

A chase was initiated but the suspect ultimately hit a tree on Iverson and Woodside in Salinas.

The suspect tried to say he got hit by a stolen vehicle, but the Monterey County Sheriff’s Office said witnesses saw him driving the stolen car when he crashed it.

The suspect was laying on the ground but responsive when deputies arrived.

The Monterey Police Department is taking over the investigation