FOX31 Denver

Man accused of stealing tractor, leading police on chase through Denver identified

DENVER — The man who allegedly stole a tractor and led police on a chase from City Park to Lower Downtown on Friday night has been identified.

Thomas Busch, 37, is being held for investigation of theft of a motor vehicle, the Denver Police Department said Sunday. Police said more charges are possible.

Someone close to Thomas said he has struggled with an addiction to methamphetamine for a long time.

His family has tried to get him help, but he continues to use meth, they say. This person said he was on drugs when he allegedly stole the tractor and led police on the chase.

The tractor was stolen from a Denver Water facility at 1600 W. 12th Avenue in the Lincoln Park neighborhood on Friday night.

Videos show a number of police vehicles pursuing the tractor, which could be seen going down busy city streets and sidewalks.

The pursuit ended near 15th and Market streets in LoDo.

Police said two of its officers were taken to a hospital with injuries. By Saturday morning, both had been treated and released.