Three charged in car theft that prompted lockdown at two Chatham County schools
Three suspects involved in a traffic stop that prompted lockdowns at two Chatham County schools have been formally charged, according to the Chatham County Sheriff's Office.
Posted — UpdatedAuthorities said Marsha Leanne Gunkel, 27, Blake Dillon Cockman, 24, and Wallace Thomas III, 26, initially stole a vehicle from Harnett County and fled from Greensboro police early Wednesday morning.
When that vehicle ran out of gas on Highway 421 near Pittsboro Goldston Road, authorities said the trio stole a Chevy Tahoe, which contained a gun belonging to the vehicle’s owner.
A Chatham County deputy stopped the stolen Tahoe at about 8 a.m., and Gunkel and Cockman were taken into custody. Thomas, who was driving the vehicle, fled from the scene.
The search for Thomas prompted a precautionary lockdown at Chatham Central High School and Bonlee School, but authorities said there was never a threat to either building.
Thomas was eventually spotted by a resident near Curtis Brower Road and U.S. Highway 421 and was taken into custody at about 3 p.m.
Thomas, Gunkel and Cockman are each charged with larceny of a motor vehicle and possession of a stolen motor vehicle.
Thomas faces additional charges of felony possession of a firearm by a felon, resisting a public officer, reckless driving to endanger and driving with a revoked license.
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