Police: Suspect in may have committed other crimes

The man accused of stealing a John Deere tractor and leading police on a low-speed chase through downtown Denver may have committed other crimes Friday night, according to the Denver Police Department.

That’s why detectives aren’t released the mug shot of Thomas Busch, 37. “Part of the investigation includes speaking with witnesses and conducting photo lineups,” according to the department.

Busch faces three charges in connection with Friday night’s incident: first-degree assault, motor vehicle theft and vehicular eluding.

The tractor hit several vehicles and buildings during the 30-minute chase, including one at East 11th Avenue and Colorado Boulevard.

Police started chasing the tractor around 8:30 p.m. at City Park after they spotted it driving over the park’s grass and sidewalks, according to police. Several people had already called 911 to report a man crashing a tractor into a fence and driving through a construction site.

The tractor then headed into downtown Denver driving the wrong way down a busy street. That’s when, according to police records, officers decided to “end the chase before he was able to hurt anyone.”

A police squad car rammed into the tractor, disabling it and injuring the officer in the process. The crash temporarily closed 15th Street from Larimer to Blake streets.

Once the tractor stopped, police said the driver “became combative and fought officers.” Officers reported having to use two Tasers to subdue the suspect.

Busch is scheduled to appear at 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in Denver County Court.

As for the tractor, a spokesman for Denver Water said the agency won’t know the extent of the damage until the police department completes its investigation.

Denver Water employees primarily used the tractor for mowing and maintenance activities.