Five Arrested After Stolen BMW Chase Ends at East Orange School

Five suspects are in custody following a dramatic 45-minute police chase that began in Fort Lee and ended when a stolen luxury SUV crashed on the grounds of an East Orange elementary school. The three-wheeled BMW X7 crossed a football field and basketball court before colliding with part of Sheila Oliver Academy around 10:45 a.m. Tuesday, leaving car parts scattered across the campus and prompting a temporary lockdown, according to ABC7 New York.

New Jersey State Police followed the vehicle from the George Washington Bridge across multiple jurisdictions before the dramatic conclusion. No injuries to students or staff were reported, though the school grounds sustained significant damage.

Multi-County Pursuit

The incident began approximately 13 miles away in Fort Lee with what authorities describe as a home break-in, according to News 12 New Jersey. State Police first encountered the stolen BMW X7 on the Cross Bronx Expressway before following it across the George Washington Bridge and onto the New Jersey Turnpike.

The pursuit continued through multiple jurisdictions before the suspects exited in Newark, where the vehicle struck a parked car and lost its front passenger wheel. Despite operating on just three wheels, the driver continued the escape attempt through Newark and into East Orange.

School Campus Damaged

Witnesses reported seeing the damaged BMW jump a curb onto Columbian Park’s field adjacent to Sheila Oliver Academy, leaving deep tire tracks across the turf. The vehicle then crossed the athletic field and collided with basketball court bleachers before finally coming to a stop after striking a portion of the school building.

Photos shared by the East Orange Office of Emergency Management show extensive damage to both the vehicle and school property, including torn field turf, a broken fence, and damaged athletic equipment. School officials said the campus was placed on immediate lockdown as a precautionary measure.

Students Safe During Incident

East Orange School District officials confirmed that all students remained safely inside the building during the incident, and no evacuations were necessary. The school’s security protocols were immediately activated when administrators became aware of the situation unfolding on school grounds.

“Our primary concern is always student safety, and we’re thankful that our security procedures worked exactly as designed,” said an East Orange School District spokesperson. “Staff responded quickly to ensure all students were accounted for and secure within the building.”

Suspects Face Multiple Charges

The five suspects, whose identities have not yet been released due to the ongoing investigation, face numerous charges including auto theft, eluding police, criminal mischief, and trespassing on school property. Additional charges related to the initial home break-in in Fort Lee are also pending, according to law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation.

State Police officials said the incident highlights the ongoing challenge of vehicle theft rings operating throughout northern New Jersey, with luxury vehicles being particular targets.