SALT LAKE CITY — The man who police say caused a fire at a gas station while trying to evade capture for driving a stolen car is facing several charges.
Joe Anthony Peck, 30, faces charges of receiving a stolen vehicle, property damage, reckless driving, and possession of a controlled substance, among others.
According to court documents, a Salt Lake City Police officer was driving in the area of 1200 West 400 South at 3:06 p.m. Saturday when he received an alert about a stolen gold sedan three blocks away.
The officer responded to the area but was unable to locate the vehicle. As the officer continued driving, he saw the vehicle parked at a gas pump of the Maverik Gas Station at 425 S. Redwood Road.
Officers say they pulled into the lot and observed Peck quickly getting into the stolen vehicle. Police say they activated their siren and emergency lights before parking in front of the vehicle.
Once spotted, Peck rapidly accelerated in reverse, losing control and striking the pump, ripping it out of the ground.
As Peck tried to move forward, the gas pump ignited, and the stolen vehicle caught fire as Peck escaped through the passenger door and attempted to flee on foot.
Officers followed Peck and arrested him a short distance away from the gas station. When officers searched him, they say they found a glass pipe and needles in addition to a substance that tested positive for methamphetamine.
