Man arrested after allegedly attempting to steal sports car during test drive

Glendale police arrested a 42-year-old man who reportedly attempted to steal a new Chevrolet Camaro during a test drive Sunday with the dealer, police said.

The man, identified as Nathan Thomas, walked into Allen Gwynn Chevrolet, located at 1400 S. Brand Blvd., and told a salesperson that he was interested in buying a car and wanted to take one out for a test drive, said Glendale Police Sgt. Robert William.

The employee made a copy of Thomas’ driver license and the pair entered the car, with Thomas in the driver’s seat.

After driving halfway around the block, Thomas allegedly pulled over and told the salesperson to get out of the car because he was going to take it, as he didn’t have enough money to buy it, William said.

The employee refused to get out, and after a brief struggle over the keys, called the manager, who joined the pair outside since they were still near the dealership, William said.

After one of the employees called police, the suspect got out of the car. The first officer on scene stopped Thomas after spotting him leaving on his motorcycle.

Thomas was arrested on suspicion of attempted vehicle theft and is being held in lieu of $25,000 bail.

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Alene Tchekmedyian, alene.tchekmedyian@latimes.com

Twitter: @atchek