Dramatic Oregon Pursuit Ends in Arrests After Subaru Rams Police Cars

Tigard, Oregon- Law enforcement units faced a tense situation on Saturday, December 9th, when officers responded to a welfare check in the in Tigard area at 8:21 PM.

The initial call reported an alarming scene – two individuals slumped over in the back of a Subaru. Upon arrival, an officer engaged with the driver, who exhibited signs of drug influence. In a startling turn of events, the driver then initiated a series of ramming maneuvers against two patrol cars, nearly striking an officer on foot.

The suspect continued the attempt to flee, heading southbound in the northbound lanes of 99W without any lights. A damaged patrol car, forced to discontinue the pursuit for safety reasons, left officers in a strategic dilemma.

Responding to the escalating situation, officers from Sherwood, Tualatin, and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, along with K-9 units and aerial support, joined forces. Utilizing witness accounts, road debris, and the lingering scent of burning oil, law enforcement successfully narrowed down the search area.

During this extensive operation, a nearby resident in the played a crucial role. Reporting individuals trespassing in his backyard and abandoning a Subaru, the resident’s call provided a breakthrough in the pursuit.

Authorities say thanks to the use of K-9 tracking, officers located the passenger, identified as 22-year-old Brittney Clawdus, in the backyard of a nearby home. Clawdus, armed with a concealed loaded gun, was safely apprehended.

Simultaneously, the driver, 25-year-old Matthew Hodgson, was discovered hiding under a canopy in the back of a truck. Hodgson, too, was safely arrested.

Subsequent investigations revealed the extent of the suspects’ alleged criminal activities. Brittney Clawdus faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, while Matthew Hodgson, in addition to an outstanding arrest warrant, is charged with an extensive list of offenses, including Assault II (x2), Attempting to elude a police officer, and Felon in possession of a restricted weapon, among others.

An officer, who sustained minor injuries during the ramming incident, underwent hospital evaluation and has been released.

The individuals involved now await due process as the legal proceedings unfold. No additional information was released by authorities at this time.