06/23/2026
NEWS RELEASE: VEHICLE PURSUIT
On June 21, 2026, at approximately 7:39 a.m., an Albert Lea Police Department (ALPD) officer took a stolen vehicle report of a 2013 Toyota Tacoma that had been taken some time over the previous evening.
On June 22, 2026, at approximately 7:33 p.m., ALPD officers were dispatched to the area of Front Street West and First Avenue South for a report of the stolen Toyota Tacoma being driven in the area. Officers arrived in the area and confirmed this was the reported stolen vehicle.
ALPD officers attempted to stop the stolen vehicle near First Avenue North and Fountain Street, but the driver fled. The vehicle was pursued for approximately 1.2 miles before the driver drove off the road near the intersection of Abbott Street and Winter Avenue. The driver then fled from the disabled vehicle on foot for approximately 500 feet, followed by officers. The driver was ultimately taken into custody after a short foot pursuit.
The driver was identified as Eh Wah Htoo, age 21, of Albert Lea. Htoo was charged with possession of stolen property, fleeing a peace officer in a motor vehicle, and fleeing a peace officer on foot. Htoo also had an outstanding parole warrant from the Minnesota Department of Corrections. Htoo was taken to the Freeborn County Adult Detention Center where he was held on felony charges.
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The mission of the Albert Lea Police Department is to enhance the quality of life in Albert Lea by providing excellent public safety services through leadership, integrity, and in collaborative partnerships with our community.
