Bruce man faces multiple charges after attempted vehicle theft

A Bruce man has been arrested after attempting to steal a vehicle by driving through a closed garage door.

Brookings County Sheriff’s Department Sergeant Kevin Murfield says a homeowner on the 400 block of First Street in Bruce called 911 to report a suspect trying to enter their residence. That was at about 2:40 am on New Year’s Day.

The homeowner reported the man was in the home’s attached garage and had entered an unlocked vehicle. When they arrived, Deputies discovered the subject had been able to start the vehicle and attempted to back it through the closed garage door.

The suspect fled on foot and was believed to be in the 300 block of Madison Street. After a search, the suspect was located. He was taken to the Brookings Hospital by Brookings Ambulance for treatment of frostbite.

Nineteen-year-old Jorgel Lopez of Bruce has been charged with 1st Degree Burglary, Criminal Entry of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Trespass, DUI,1st Degree Vandalism, Reckless Driving, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle and Underage Consumption.

Damage to the garage door is estimated at $3500.

Brookings Police and South Dakota State University Police also responded to the incident.

January 3, 2022