Business owner's truck stolen, totaled during chase in El Reno

An alleged thief was arrested after stealing a man's work truck and trailer, and leading police on a chase.

EL RENO, Okla. (KFOR) — An alleged thief was arrested after stealing a man's work truck and trailer, and leading police on a chase.

Kenny Schwab is the owner is "Schwab Mowing Services" and he said his employees parked his work truck and trailer in an alley behind a customer's house.

That's when 39-year-old Daniel Magpie allegedly hopped in the drivers seat and took off while Schwab's employees were mowing a customer's yard.

"Police officers were on normal routine patrol when they were flagged down by a victim who advised that a suspect had just stolen their work truck and attached trailer," said Kirk Dickerson, Assistant Chief of El Reno Police.

Video shows several officers tailing Magpie, as well as Schwab.

"I guess Mr. Magpie decided he needed my truck and trailer more than my guys did," said Schwab. "In disbelief that somebody would actually take $50,000 or $60,000 worth of equipment."

Schwab said he was at home when his client called to tell him the bad news.

"I got involved in the middle of the chase," said Schwab.

After about four miles, Magpie crashed out and tried to run, but instead got tased and then handcuffed.

However Schwab has been left in a major financial hole during his business's busiest time.

"My truck has been totaled out. It'll be a new mower and a new trailer," said Schwab.

In the 24 years he's had his business, Schwab said he's never dealt with anything like this before.

"I don't appreciate people stealing from me," said Schwab.

As of Friday, Magpie is still in jail and facing several charges including larceny and eluding police.