The Lake Wales Police Department has released a statement today with regard to an incident involving a stolen vehicle in Lake Wales.
On November 21, 2024, officers responded to a stolen vehicle on Dr. J. A. Wiltshire Avenue. While on scene still investigating the incident, the stolen vehicle (2015 Chevy Malibu) was observed driving east on Florida Avenue. Officers attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle and the driver (Nicholas Reynolds) fled North on Scenic Highway. The vehicle slowed prior to the intersection of Chalet Suzanne Road and Scenic Highway when a passenger attempted to exit the vehicle. Reynolds accelerated while the passenger was exiting the vehicle, running over the passenger causing minor injuries.
The vehicle was located shortly after traveling on Waverly Road. Reynolds then abandoned the stolen vehicle at the intersection of Scenic Highway and Waverly Road and attempted to flee on foot through the orange groves. Reynoldswas quickly apprehended by officers and taken into custody.
The driver was identified as Nicholas Reynolds, 41, of Lake Wales. Reynolds was arrested and charged with grand theft of a motor vehicle, aggravated battery, fleeing to elude, driving while license suspended, and resisting an officer without violence.
