AKRON, Ohio — A 2-year-old child has been recovered while a 21-year-old suspect -- identified as Ja Den White -- was arrested Thursday morning after a chase in Akron.
Police say it was around 8:30 a.m. when the child “was left unattended in a running vehicle” in a Circle K parking lot in the 600 block of East Market Street.
A short time later, Akron police say they received a call about the vehicle being stolen with the child still inside.
"Officers located the vehicle, and a pursuit ensued through West Akron," according to a press release from Akron police. "During the pursuit, the suspect struck at least one police cruiser, resulting in an injury to the officer."
When the suspect reached Moon Street and Bellevue Avenue, police say he placed the child -- who was still in his car seat -- out of the vehicle at the intersection "and continued to elude police."
White was ultimately taken into custody in the 1500 block Superior Avenue without incident, according to Akron police. He is being charged with kidnapping, willful flee, felonious assault on a peace officer and receiving stolen property, but police say additional charges may be added pending the outcome of the investigation.
"The child, who appeared unharmed, was reunited with his mother and later transported to Akron Children’s Hospital for evaluation," according to police.
The injured officer was taken to a local hospital for medical evaluation.
Police say a handgun was also recovered from the vehicle.