Man dragged, injured trying to stop alleged car thief in Oneida

Posted: 01.18.2011 at 1:28 PM

Read more: Local, State, Crime, Car Stolen. Oneida

MIchael A. Thomas / Madison Co. Jail

ONEIDA -- A frightening experience for a couple in the City of Oneida. Police there tell us that at 10:30 Friday night two residents of Stone Street had returned home from an evening out. The man and woman entered their house and were preparing to drive their babysitter home, when they heard the engine of their 2010 Nissan Pathfinder revving. The male resident ran outside and tried to stop a man from driving off with the vehicle. Police identify that man as Michael A. Thomas, 26, of North Main Street, Canastota. Police say the resident, whom they did not identify, had the door open as Thomas drove off. The victim was dragged by the vehicle for about 100 feet before he fell off, one of his legs was run over by the SUV's rear wheels.

Police say Thomas continued driving, was involved in a hit and run accident in Wampsville with another vehicle. He continued to Canastota where he struck a snow bank behind the Tops Supermarket on Genesee Street. Police say he then abandoned the stolen vehicle and fled on foot. Through their investigation police arrested him the following day. He is facing charges of robbery in the 2nd degree, reckless endangerment in the 1st. degree, and unauthorized us of a motor vehicle. Thomas is being held on $50,000 cash or $100,000 bond. The victim was treated and release for the ankle injury.