Stolen tractor winds up in Cedar Rapids creek

Police say someone stole a tractor and caused damage Tuesday in Cedar Rapids.

City workers found a tractor and mower attachment around 2:45 p.m. in a creek near Blairs Ferry Road and Buffalo Road NE, police said. Tractor owner Justin Kacinski, who rents the land, told officers he uses it to mow the grass and leaves the equipment on site.

Police said someone got the tractor started and took off, striking a street sign and part of a cement embankment.  The police report does not indicate how the tractor was started.

Sgt. Cristy Hamblin said police believe they know who was responsible. She said a 31-year-old male was taken to St. Luke's for a psychiatric evaluation. Charges for hit-and-run, theft and interference with official acts are pending, she said.

The man's name was not released because he has not yet been arrested or charged.