Kentucky police searching for man who allegedly drove stolen church van into store

HAZARD, Ky. (FOX 56) — Kentucky State Police are investigating after a church van was stolen on Thursday from Smithboro Baptist Church in Knott County.

Police said troopers responded to the area of Q’s Quick Stop locations in the Colson Community of Letcher County to locate the vehicle. Troopers ended up finding the stolen van and a man identified as 22-year-old Cecil Shell, of Whitesburg, around 7:05 p.m.

Reportedly, troopers attempted to talk to Shell, who allegedly backed up the van, hitting a building and leaving.

According to a news release, authorities found the stolen vehicle in a creek after it was involved in a single-vehicle collision.

A search was conducted for Shell, but he wasn’t located.

Arrest warrants were issued for Shell for receiving stolen property 10,000 or more, first-degree criminal mischief, and first-degree fleeing or evading police.

Anyone with information is asked to call Kentucky State Police at (606) 435-6069.

The investigation is ongoing.