Cedar Rapids man accused of crashing stolen car into house, running from police

CEDAR RAPIDS — The Cedar Rapids Fire Department was called to the scene of a crash in northwest Cedar Rapids Friday night after a stolen car, which was being pursued by police, crashed into a home.

Cedar Rapids police were called to 4515 Martin Ct. NW at 11:24 p.m. Friday on a report there had been a burglary and a vehicle — identified in court filings as a Toyota Scion tC — was stolen. According to a news release issued by the police department, officers located the stolen car being driven in the area.

When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver — Robert William Becker, 37 — lost control and crashed into the house at 909 Wiley Blvd. NW, the release states. Becker reportedly fled the scene, but was apprehended.

The Cedar Rapids Fire Department and local utility service providers were called to the scene to secure the home due to “heavy accident damage.”

Becker was arrested. He’s been charged with second-degree theft; eluding — speed over 25 mph over the limit; leaving the scene of an accident — property damage only; interference with official acts; OWI second offense; driving while license suspended; two counts of failure to obey a traffic control device; and speed over 20 over in a 55 mph or less zone.