Man trying to steal his own truck hits utility pole, knocks out power

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CRAFTON, Pa. — A crash that damaged a utility pole and knocked out power to a handful of homes was caused by a man trying to steal his own vehicle, police said.

According to police, this all started when Charles Patterson's pickup truck was towed from his apartment complex in Crafton Monday night. Patterson went to Howard’s Towing in Pittsburgh and took his truck, ramming it through the gate to get out of the parking lot, police said.

A tow truck operator also returned to Crafton where the two got into an altercation. Patterson put his truck into reverse and dragged the tow truck driver several feet along Baldwick Road before he crashed into a utility pole, police said.

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The tow truck driver was taken to the hospital for treatment.

Patterson turned himself in to Crafton police. He faces charges of aggravated assault and other offenses, police said.

About five homes are without power because of the crash. Duquesne Light and Verizon crews have been called to the scene.