WINOOSKI — A manhunt is underway for a fugitive involved in a spate of vehicle thefts and high-speed pursuits that took place across northwestern Vermont on Tuesday.
Andrew Brace, 39, of St. Albans, led authorities on multiple chases, nearly causing several accidents and at times driving directly at police vehicles to force them off the road.
The incidents began in Grand Isle County in the morning and continued through Swanton, Fairfield, Georgia, and St. Albans.
At approximately 2 p.m., police discovered the stolen Ford F-250 abandoned in Winooski.
Brace, who has had several recent confrontations with law enforcement, is considered extremely dangerous.
The public is advised to lock their vehicles when not in use and to be vigilant when approaching their cars.
Brace is described as 5 feet 11 inches tall, weighing 220 pounds, last seen wearing black athletic shorts without a shirt.
Authorities believe he is on foot in the Winooski area.
The community is urged to call 911 immediately if they spot him.
No injuries or vehicle crashes had been reported by 2 p.m.
Multiple agencies are involved in the search, including the Grand Isle County Sheriff’s Department, police departments from Milton, St. Albans, Swanton, and Winooski, the Vermont Department of Fish & Wildlife, the Vermont Department of Motor Vehicles Enforcement and Safety Division, and the Vermont State Police.
Information can be reported to the Vermont State Police in St. Albans at 802-524-5993 or anonymously online at https://vsp.vermont.gov/tipsubmit.
The Vermont State Police will provide updates as the situation progresses.
