One man has been charged after allegedly stealing a truck in Emporia and then leading a quick chase near town over the weekend.
The truck’s owner, meanwhile, has not been charged after allegedly squeezing off nearly 10 rounds at the vehicle as it was being stolen.
Blake Cheney, 33, was charged this week with aggravated burglary, theft, flee and elude, reckless driving, criminal carrying a weapon and driving while revoked or suspended.
The charges follow an incident Saturday evening where a pickup was stolen from the 1500 block of Thompson and developed into a vehicle pursuit and foot chase south of Emporia. According to court documents viewed by KVOE News, the truck’s owner, Brian Wilhite, 36, said he heard the truck getting started unexpectedly. He got a gun and saw a dark figure pointing towards him. Wilhite said he fired eight rounds at the vehicle because he was fearful for his safety, especially with a loaded gun in the truck cab.
Cheney allegedly led local law enforcement on a chase to the 1200 block of Road 160, where he ditched the truck and fled on foot to a nearby house. He was found in a building outside the house.
Cheney had his first appearance in Lyon County District Court earlier this week. A preliminary hearing is now set for Jan. 16.
Meanwhile, Wilhite is not currently facing charges. Prosecutors have not decided whether to do so and will make that determination later as the law enforcement investigation continues.
