Drunken Driver Flees Police in Stolen Audi in Bad Schwartau

In a dramatic turn of events on the evening of July 14, 2025, a 32-year-old man attempted to evade a police checkpoint while driving a stolen Audi, endangering other road users in the process. The incident unfolded around 7:40 PM in Pansdorf, where a concerned citizen reported a dispute involving the vehicle.

Police officers soon spotted the Audi traveling in the opposite direction and promptly initiated a pursuit. The driver, however, disregarded all signals to stop. As he navigated the streets of Bad Schwartau, the vehicle came to a halt momentarily on Riesebusch before speeding away again.

Eventually, the chase concluded on Pariner Street, where the driver ceased his flight and surrendered to authorities. Upon conducting a routine check, officers discovered that the man, a resident of the Münsterland region, was under the influence of alcohol. A breathalyzer test indicated a blood alcohol concentration of 2.2 promille, significantly exceeding legal limits.

Further investigation revealed that the Audi was reported stolen and the driver lacked a valid driver's license. Authorities also noted that he was wanted on outstanding arrest warrants. In response to the incident, police secured the vehicle and conducted a blood test on the driver, who was subsequently taken into custody at the Lübeck correctional facility.

The passenger, who had been involved in the earlier altercation with the driver, is expected to serve as a witness in the ongoing investigation. The Bad Schwartau police department has initiated legal proceedings against the driver on charges of endangering public safety, unauthorized vehicle racing, and driving without a valid license.