Suspects in Linn County chase run after car gets stuck

CENTRAL CITY – Two Central City men were arrested after running from authorities Tuesday afternoon.

A Linn County Sheriff's Deputy noticed a sport-utility vehicle with expired license plates around 1 p.m. on Collins Road north of Central City. The deputy attempted to pull over the vehicle, but the driver sped away, turning onto Ford Lane back toward Central City.

The driver went to 680 N. Fourth St., where he drove between building and then out in a field with deputies on his tail, authorities said. Both the SUV and the deputy's car got stuck in mud among some trees.

Two people ran from the SUV and were caught after a short foot chase. Lt. Greg McGivern said the driver was identified as Brian J. Padgett, 32, and his passenger was Jack E. Bruce, 42, both of Central City. Bruce was found hiding among thick brush with help from a police dog.

Both men face charges of possession of stolen property and interference with official acts. Padgett is also charged with several traffic charges and possession of drug paraphernalia.

An investigation is continuing.