Police Chase Leads to Arrests in Vehicle Theft and Armed Robbery Case in Gainesville

GAINESVILLE, Ga.—Two Decatur men have been arrested and charged with armed robbery and motor vehicle hijacking after a vehicle theft that led to a police chase on Monday.

At approximately 10:38 a.m. on August 25, Gainesville Police officers responded to a report of an armed robbery near Lakeshore Mall. The victim told police that he had arranged to meet two individuals through Facebook Marketplace to sell his black Mercedes S550. During a test drive, the suspects allegedly brandished firearms, demanded the victim’s phone and wallet, and fled in the stolen vehicle.

Using a vehicle tracking application, Gainesville officers provided real-time updates on the car’s location as it traveled south on Interstate 985. The Suwanee Police Department intercepted the vehicle and initiated a pursuit, which ended when they performed a PIT maneuver.

Both suspects were apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. A replica handgun was recovered from the stolen vehicle.

The suspects were identified as Christopher Denard Wright, 49, and Christopher Jalil Burnett, 37, both of Decatur. They were transported to the Hall County Jail and charged with Armed Robbery and Hijacking a Motor Vehicle.

Gainesville Police Chief Jay Parrish praised the multi-agency effort, stating, “This case is a clear example of how collaboration between law enforcement agencies protects our community. Because of quick thinking by our officers and assistance from Suwanee Police, two dangerous suspects are now in custody.”

The investigation is ongoing.