WICHITA, Kan. (KSNW) – A stolen City of Wichita vehicle caused what police called “extensive” damage at a park and crashed into a Botanica gate around 5 a.m. Thursday.
The Wichita Police Department said they were called to a disabled vehicle at Sim Golf Course. They found a Chevy Tahoe on Murdock Street by Botanica.
Lieutenant Aaron Moses said the vehicle was stolen from the water facility.
“An individual was able to access the facility where this was being kept and was able to steal this vehicle. They then drove through a fence onto Botanica property,” Moses said.
Moses said the vehicle drove through other fences and property, which left the vehicle disabled. There were no suspects at the scene.
Police said they are reviewing surveillance video and processing the vehicle for evidence. If you live in the area and may have video in the 4 to 5:30 a.m. time frame, police want you to call them at 316-268-4407 or call Crime Stoppers at 316-267-2111.
Dawn Hewitt, the new executive director at Botanica, said a gate was damaged, but no other damage was reported inside. She said the staff assessed the damage and contacted an insurance company, so repairs can be made. They estimate that repairs will cost $5,000.
Botanica says the main entrance off Amidon is still open and should be used for admittance into the gardens.
The estimated damages to Sims Golf Course will cost $2,000 to repair.
