DPS arrests man on Phoenix freeway in stolen SUV, find military ordnance inside

PHOENIX — Arizona highway authorities in Phoenix arrested a man accused of driving a stolen vehicle that had an inactive military ordnance inside.

Department of Public Safety officials said 36-year-old Timothy Carpenter is facing one count of theft of transportation among other charges, including outstanding warrants.

Detectives spotted the stolen SUV at a north Phoenix motel Wednesday and tried to arrest Carpenter, but he drove off, authorities said.

He later jumped out of the vehicle on Interstate 17 near Deer Valley Road and tried to flee but was taken into custody, officials said.

When troopers searched the SUV, they found a suspicious device.

Part of the freeway was shut down for about an hour while authorities investigated the device.

DPS’ explosives and ordnance disposal unit responded to the scene and determined the munition was a nonexplosive military device.