Cedar Rapids man leads police on chase, crashes into tree

CEDAR RAPIDS - A Cedar Rapids man is accused of leading police on a chase in a stolen truck after he was found passed out behind the wheel.

According to the Linn County Attorney's Office, on Sept. 13, Cedar Rapids police were called to Wal-Mart for a report of a man passed out in a vehicle. Responding officers found 28-year-old Samuel Oberbreckling unconscious behind the wheel of a Ford F-150 pickup that was determined to be stolen.

Authorities said when Oberbreckling woke up, he fled in the truck and led police on a high-speed chase that ended when he crashed into a tree in Palo. Oberbreckling then ran on foot, but was captured a short time later.

Authorities said Oberbreckling was found to be in possession of meth, marijuana, 'various prescription drugs” and drug paraphernalia. He has previous convictions for possession of a controlled substance and operating while intoxicated, authorities said.

Oberbreckling has been arrested and charged with second-degree theft, eluding, possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, operating under in the influence of drugs - second offense, unlawful possession of a prescription drug, possession of drug paraphernalia and interference with official acts.

l Comments: (319) 398-8238; lee.hermiston@thegazette.com