Livonia, MI — A stolen white sedan was brought to a dramatic halt in Livonia this week after police deployed a Grappler Police Bumper device during a pursuit through the city’s westbound corridors. The high-stress situation ended without injuries, and three individuals were taken into custody.
The incident began when Livonia Police received an alert about a stolen vehicle reportedly taken from a nearby community earlier in the day. Officers quickly located the vehicle — a late-model white car — traveling westbound through the city around mid-afternoon. Attempting to stop the vehicle, officers activated their lights and sirens, but the driver refused to pull over, initiating a brief but tense pursuit.
With growing traffic and concerns for public safety, officers decided to employ a tactical solution rather than allow the chase to escalate. Livonia Police deployed a Grappler Police Bumper — a relatively new tool in law enforcement designed to safely bring pursuits to a stop. The device, which mounts to the front of a patrol vehicle, uses a high-strength nylon tether to snare the rear wheels of a suspect’s car.
As the fleeing driver attempted to speed away, officers moved into position and successfully attached the Grappler to the suspect vehicle. Within moments, the tether tangled in the rear wheels, effectively locking the car in place. The force of the stop was so strong that it tore the rear axle from the vehicle, leaving it disabled in the roadway.
Despite the sudden halt, no injuries were reported among the suspects, officers, or the public. The driver attempted to press the accelerator and break free, but the Grappler’s tether held firm. Officers quickly surrounded the vehicle and ordered all occupants out.
Police say the driver and two passengers complied with commands and were taken into custody without further resistance. They were transported to the Livonia Police Department for questioning. Investigators are working to determine whether the suspects are connected to any other recent vehicle thefts or criminal activity in the region.
“This is a perfect example of how emerging technology can help bring dangerous situations to a safe resolution,” said a Livonia Police Department spokesperson. “The Grappler allowed us to stop the vehicle without risking a prolonged pursuit through our city streets.”
The use of the Grappler is part of a broader trend among police departments across the country seeking safer alternatives to traditional high-speed chases, which often carry significant risks to officers, suspects, and the public alike.
The stolen vehicle was later towed from the scene. The roadway was briefly closed to allow crews to clear debris from the damaged car and ensure traffic safety.
Authorities have not released the identities of the individuals involved, pending formal charges. The case has been forwarded to the Wayne County Prosecutor’s Office for review.
Livonia Police said the investigation remains ongoing.