Alexandria Woman Arrested In Arson, Squad Car Theft And Chase Incident

ALEXANDRIA (AP) - Charges are pending against an Alexandria woman who allegedly caused an apartment fire, unsuccessfully hid from firefighters in the ceiling, then stole a police squad car after being handcuffed and led officers on a high-speed chase.

Police say firefighters responded to the residence Sunday evening and put out a small fire on the living room floor. The 35-year-old woman was arrested after falling through the ceiling tiles while allegedly possessing a methamphetamine pipe and lighter.

Authorities say the woman was able to get one arm free of handcuffs while alone in the back of a squad car and squeeze into the front seat through a sliding window. She allegedly drove off and later led officers on a chase reaching speeds of 121 mph before being apprehended.

No injuries were reported.