Unlicensed driver flees police in Feldkirch and damages patrol car

A 23-year-old man fled a police check in Feldkirch on Wednesday, speeding towards Rankweil and damaging a police vehicle during the pursuit, ORF reported.

Police said the Austrian driver ignored officers’ attempts to stop him at about 6 p.m. during a targeted check. Several patrols pursued his black Mercedes. He drove around multiple police roadblocks before officers stopped him in the municipality of Rankweil. He was arrested without resistance.

The man did not have a valid driving licence and had taken the car without authorisation, police said. They also said he was under the influence of alcohol and drugs. He is to be reported to the public prosecutor’s office and the district authority.

Police are asking witnesses and anyone who may have been put at risk during the pursuit to contact Rankweil police station.