A Council Bluffs Police Officer on patrol a little after 3-a.m. today (Wednesday) in the area of 35th and Avenue G, saw a silver 2001 Chrysler minivan that had been reported stolen on Jan. 15th. The officer kept the vehicle in sight, and forwarded information to Nebraska Authorities, as the van got onto I-480 West. While the vehicle was westbound across the I-480 Bridge, it stalled just before it reached the IA / NE state line. The Council Bluffs officer pulled in behind the stalled vehicle and activated his emergency lights. The driver – later identified as 51-year old Brian J. Hanson, of Omaha -abandoned the vehicle. He fled on foot into the east bound lanes of I-480.

Brian J. Hanson

The officer gave chase and caught Hanson. While officers were in foot pursuit of Hanson, the abandoned stolen van rolled backwards striking the push bumpers on the stopped / parked police cruiser. The cruiser sustained minor damage. Brian J. Hanson was arrested on a Felony warrant for being a Fugitive from Justice, and new charges that include Theft in the 2nd degree, Eluding, and Interference with Official Acts.