Two attached photos: One photo of Curtis being pulled from the water near Spanish Harbor boat ramp (photo provided by Florida Highway Patrol); second photo of detectives processing the stolen truck for possible evidence (photo taken by Sheriff's Sgt. Evan Calhoun).
A Key West man who stole a truck from the city of Key West drove recklessly northbound, failing to stop for deputies. He finally crashed his vehicle into two other vehicles, fled on foot from the truck and was apprehended after a short search on Big Pine Key.
38 year old Troy Curtis stole the 2004 Ford F150 and was reported as a reckless driver at 3:20 p.m. as he traveled at a high rate of speed through Big Coppitt Key. As the caller was reporting his dangerous driving, the Key West Police Department was also notifying Sheriff’s dispatchers that deputies should be on the lookout for the stolen truck.Sgt. Linda Mixon attempted to stop the truck at the 27 mile marker of the highway. Curtis refused to stop. On Big Pine Key, Curtis stuck another vehicle and came to a stop, bailing out of the truck and fleeing on foot.
A search of the area ensued with the assistance of Sheriff Rick Ramsay, Sheriff’s deputies and detectives and Fish and Wildlife Officers. Curtis was located swimming in the water near the Spanish Harbor boat ramp and was taken into custody.
Key West Police are investigating the vehicle theft; Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the vehicle crash.
Curtis has been booked into the Monroe County Detention Center where he faces numerous charges including reckless driving, fleeing from police and driving with his license suspended – habitual offender. More charges are pending.