In University Place, Washington, a bizarre self-tow incident unfolded at Pho and Teriyaki on July 30, leading to significant property damage and an ongoing investigation. Surveillance footage captured the events, beginning when a maroon sedan, parked near AutoZone the day prior, became a runaway vehicle after an ill-fated towing attempt. The incident occurred around 6 a.m., but the trouble began the night before when the vehicle’s driver had informed employees that he would return to tow it away.
Around 3:45 a.m., a white Honda Pilot, equipped with a trailer dolly, appeared to try and tow the sedan. Initial efforts seemed promising as the car was eventually pulled from its stall, but complications quickly arose. The tow strap failed multiple times, first snapping as the vehicle was relocated, causing the sedan to roll uncontrollably toward the restaurant. Despite the driver’s attempts at stopping the runaway car, it crashed into the building, showcasing the chaotic nature of the towing endeavor.
As the morning wore on, the driver’s attempts to secure the car continued, yet each was met with setbacks. After the initial strap failure, the driver made multiple attempts to remove the vehicle without success. The situation escalated when the car rolled back toward the restaurant once more, leading to further damage. On yet another try, the driver, along with a female passenger, managed to move the car toward the exit, only to incur additional minor collisions with a retaining wall and curb.
Frustration mounted, and ultimately, the driver abandoned the sedan, leaving it unmanned as they fled the scene. Despite the surreal and chaotic nature of the towing attempts, no arrests have been made at this time, and inquiries regarding potential charges are ongoing. The Pierce County sheriff’s office is actively investigating the crash, deemed a hit-and-run due to the driver’s abrupt departure.
The restaurant, unfortunately, was left with substantial damage, a consequence of the failed self-towing efforts. Store owners and patrons were left to deal with the aftermath as local law enforcement initiated their investigation. The incident not only raised concerns about the safety and legality of towing practices but also captured the community’s attention due to its unusual circumstances.
Fox News Digital reached out for updates on the investigation and any potential arrests linked to this incident. The community remains on edge as they await more information, reflecting on how an ordinary towing attempt escalated into an event that disrupted not only a business but also raised questions about accountability in similar situations going forward.
