Man caught during burglary stole 6 cars, police say


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ST. GEORGE — Police believe a man caught during a burglary Monday morning is responsible for the theft of six vehicles from multiple dealerships.

Michael Chase Montgomery, 30, was inside Approved Auto Sales, located at 356 S. 300 West, when officers arrived at about 6 a.m. to investigate a burglary report, according to the St. George Police Department.

“The male brandished a handgun, pointing it toward officers, and then fled the scene on foot,” a statement from police reads. “The man was quickly and safely taken into custody by responding officers. No shots were fired.”

Investigators said they recovered a firearm, stolen property and suspected methamphetamine on scene. A maroon SUV, which had a dealer license registered to Lunt Motor Company, was also located in the parking lot. Police said property inside the vehicle appeared to be stolen, prompting officers to respond to Lunt Motor Company, located at 39 W. St. George Boulevard.


The male brandished a handgun, pointing it toward officers, and then fled the scene on foot.

–St. George police


When officers arrived, they determined a vehicle had been stolen from the lot in addition to keys to other vehicles, paperwork and documents. Police said they believe Montgomery burglarized Lunt Motor Company before breaking into Approved Auto Sales.

Investigators believe Montgomery is also connected to the Jan. 19 burglary of Munoz Auto Sales, where five cars were stolen, according to Sgt. Sam Despain. The dealership is located at 99 W. St. George Boulevard.

“Last night near Lunt Motors we recovered the fifth and final car from the Munoz theft,” he said. “Right now all of the cars have been recovered.”

Montgomery was arrested on suspicion of burglary, theft, weapons and drug-related charges, according to police. He was booked into the Washington County Jail.

“We’re still trying to determine whether there are any other individuals involved with this,” he said. “This case is still considered active. We’re meeting with other agencies in other jurisdictions to see if there is anything that can be linked there.”

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