Collision CourseKaren Pedersen, above, was lucky to...

Collision Course

Karen Pedersen, above, was lucky to escape unharmed Wednesday after stumbling upon a gunman stealing her Ford Explorer. Vehicle theft remains the region’s most costly crime. And while studies show that 72% of Orange County’s hot wheels are recovered, “probably only 20% to 30% are in the same shape as when they were stolen,” CHP Lt. Rick Criner says. * METRO, B1

Now It Can Be Told

“Humpty Dumpty” is really about Richard III and his “great fall” from his horse--whose name was Wall. So claims Craig Fleming, whose Young Conservatory Players production of “Mother Goose: On Trial!” at South Coast Repertory reveals the roots of the rhymes. * OC LIVE!, F2

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“I don’t believe in doing anything that would hurt an animal. . . . What I did probably saved half a cow. I’m a bus driver--I’m paid to get people safely from one place to another, not to support Carl’s Jr.”

--Bruce Anderson, a vegetarian suspended by OCTA for refusing to pass out free hamburger coupons during a ridership promotion. * METRO, B1

Postgraduate Play

Steve Sisco is getting an education in the minor leagues. So far this season, the former Cal State Fullerton second baseman has also played third, outfield and designated hitter for the Wichita Wranglers. Says Sisco: “They can’t say I’m not versatile, but I think that will help me in the long run.” * SPORTS, C6