Dietzholztal (dpa/lhe) – A man stole diesel from a gas station in Dietzholztal (Lahn-Dill-Kreis) and rammed another vehicle with his car while trying to escape. The 36-year-old tanked 160 liters of diesel on Monday evening and drove on without paying, the police said on Tuesday night. On the run, the man ignored a red light and rammed the car of a 78-year-old. The 36-year-old fled on foot, but was caught by officers shortly afterwards.
A service dog was used in the pursuit, police said. Both drivers were therefore slightly injured. The police estimate the damage at 20,000 euros.
Because he was driving without a license and under the influence of alcohol and drugs, the 36-year-old is facing several criminal proceedings, according to the police. He was also driving with the wrong number plate.
The high price of fuel tempts criminals in many places to steal diesel. Since the war in Ukraine, motorists have been paying significantly more at the pump.
