What initially appeared as a “motorist assist” has evolved into a vehicle theft investigation in Fayette County.
Shortly after 11:30 p.m. on Wednesday, St. Elmo Police observed a motorist assist situation on I-70 westbound, approximately 10 miles west of St. Elmo. Upon speaking with the motorist, officers suspected dishonesty. The 60-year-old motorist, identified as Darren E. Sydnor from Kansas City, fled the scene and attempted to evade arrest by crawling into a water-filled culvert. Officers were able to apprehend Sydnor until Fayette County deputies and Vandalia police arrived to provide backup.
Further investigation revealed that Sydnor had stolen the vehicle he was driving from West Cumberland Road in Brownstown. Sydnor claimed that the vehicle he was previously driving had run out of gas in Brownstown next to the stolen vehicle. He also admitted to fleeing a traffic stop in Missouri and confirmed he was on parole in Missouri.
Sydnor was arrested on charges including motor vehicle theft, resisting arrest, and possession of drug paraphernalia. He is scheduled to appear in court on September 9.
