A dramatic pursuit in Elgin on July 15 has left authorities searching for a man with gang connections and a criminal history. Ryan Heath Kitchko, 37, is wanted after allegedly leading police on a high-speed chase that tore through private property and ended with his truck submerged in a pond near the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge area. Kitchko escaped on foot and remains at large.
When officers recovered the vehicle, they discovered a loaded sawed-off shotgun inside along with extra ammunition. Elgin Police Officer Aaron Weaver noted that Kitchko was seen moving around the cab during the pursuit, which police believe was an attempt to conceal evidence or retrieve the weapon. Kitchko faces felony charges including gang-related offenses and firearm possession after a prior felony, plus misdemeanor counts for eluding police and driving violations. His criminal record includes convictions for attempted robbery and burglary.
An arrest warrant has been issued in Comanche County District Court with a $35,000 cash bond. Law enforcement urges anyone who sees Kitchko to avoid approaching him and to contact Crime Stoppers of Southwest Oklahoma at (580) 355-INFO. Do you think the community is doing enough to help police track down dangerous suspects like this one?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.