Woman Arrested in Arson, Squad Car Theft, and Chase Incident in Alexandria

She unsuccessfully tried to hide in the ceiling of her apartment

Charges are pending against an Alexandria woman, who allegedly caused an apartment fire, and unsuccessfully hid from firefighters in the ceiling. After being handcuffed, she proceeded to steal a police squad car 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 the squad car and squeeze into the front seat through a sliding window. She allegedly drove off and led officers on a chase reaching speeds of 121 mph before being apprehended.

No injuries were reported.