January 16, 2025

An Austin, Indiana man is in custody for auto theft and leaving the scene of an accident after a SUV was stolen from a local gas station. At 9:25 a.m. on January 15th, 2025, Columbus Police Department (CPD) officers were called to a gas station in the 4000 block of 25th Street after a man was seen stealing a Honda Pilot from the parking lot. The owner of the Pilot told officers that he left the vehicle running and with his handgun inside while he went into the gas station. While inside, he saw a man get into his car. The owner ran out and attempted to stop the theft, but the suspect drove the vehicle away, striking a pillar in the process.

A short time later, officers found the stolen vehicle in the 3200 block of Flintwood Drive with the firearm still inside. Brandon McIntosh, 27, was found walking in the area and was identified from the gas station video as the suspect who stole the Pilot.

While searching the area, officers also located a Honda Civic on Lincoln Village Drive that had been stolen earlier in the month from the 2100 block of Pennsylvania Street. The Civic had been running outside while it warmed up when it was stolen. Based on video and witness statements, investigators believe McIntosh stole the Civic, as well.

McIntosh remains in the Bartholomew County Jail on the preliminary charges of theft of a motor vehicle, a level 6 felony, and leaving the scene of an accident, a class A misdemeanor.

These incidents are good reminders for us to remember to lock our vehicles, as well as, never leaving a firearm unsecured. Historically, CPD sees an increase in reports of thefts of vehicles and thefts from vehicles around this time of year. Many of the vehicles are left unlocked. Remember: “Hide it. Lock it. Keep it.”

  • Hide or remove valuable items from your car.
  • Lock your doors with the windows closed when your car is unattended.
  • Keep your car keys with you when leave it.

If you see suspicious activity or know of someone committing these types of crime, please call us at 812-376-2600.

All charges are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Brandon McIntosh

Police

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(812) 379-1689

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(812) 376-2600

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123 Washington Street
Columbus, IN 47201
(812) 376-2653
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