Two men have been arrested after a stolen car was brought to a dramatic halt during a high-speed police pursuit through Medway in the early hours of Wednesday, April 30, 2025.
The incident began at 1.50am when Kent Police officers, while on routine patrol, spotted a Vauxhall Astra they suspected to be stolen as it entered the Medway Tunnel. When officers activated their blue lights to stop the vehicle, the driver refused to pull over and sped off, heading towards Strood and then Rochester.
The suspect vehicle was allegedly driven dangerously throughout the chase, prompting a tactical response. Officers deployed a stinger device, which successfully deflated the vehicle’s tyres as it neared Blue Bell Hill. The Astra was then boxed in by three police vehicles and safely brought to a stop.
Two local men, aged 36 and 22, were arrested at the scene and taken into custody. The investigation remains ongoing.
A Kent Police spokesperson praised the quick-thinking response of the officers involved:
“This was a high-risk situation involving a stolen vehicle being driven dangerously through residential areas. Thanks to decisive action and the safe deployment of a stinger, officers were able to stop the vehicle and arrest two suspects without injury to the public.”
The incident caused temporary disruption in parts of the Medway area but no injuries or damage to police vehicles were reported.
Police are urging any witnesses or those with dashcam footage of the pursuit to come forward as part of the continuing investigation.
