Theft suspect arrested after barrels fell from van, creating dangerous situation

RENO, Nev. (KOLO) – Reno police arrested a man Friday after he allegedly dumped 55-gallon drums of paint thinner and stole them from a store at two locations in Reno.

Police did not immediately release his name.

Police said the man stole something from the CVS on Seventh Street in northwest Reno and as he fled, he either crashed the van he was driving into a vehicle or a drum came out and hit a vehicle. The Apex Saw van appeared to have been borrowed, police said.

The man later went to a location on Selmi Drive in northeast Reno and more barrels fell out.

The Reno Fire Department's Hazardous Materials Team cleaned up chemical spills at both locations.

The man was charged with hit-and-run and theft and other charges are being investigated, police said.

There were no injuries.

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