On Saturday, March 18, 2017 a deputy observed a 1995 Acura Integra being operated by 34 year old Terry Thomas of Roseburg. The vehicle had previously been reported as stolen. The deputy attempted to stop Thomas, who attempted to elude in the vehicle before crashing on Gazley Road near Lou Gray Drive in Canyonville. Thomas and his 24 year old passenger, Whitney Atterbury of Roseburg, exited the vehicle and began running from deputies. Atterbury was captured after a brief foot chase. Thomas jumped into the South Umpqua River and floated down river. After approximately 45 minutes in the water, Thomas, who was unconscious, was rescued from the water by deputies. He was transported to Mercy Medical Center where he received treatment and was ultimately discharged into the custody of law enforcement. Both Thomas and Atterbury were lodged at the Douglas County Jail on the following charges: Thomas – Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Fail to Perform the Duties of a Driver – Misdemeanor, Obstructing Governmental Administration, Interfering with a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, Attempt to Elude on Foot, Attempt to Elude in Vehicle, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, and Parole Violation. Atterbury – Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Unlawful Possession of Methamphetamine, Obstructing Governmental Administration, Interfering with a Police Officer, Resisting Arrest, Escape 2nd Degree, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, and Parole Violation.
