UPDATE: Man steals excavator and starts ripping up the ground, breaks water line

SALT LAKE CITY – A water line broke by a Smith’s parking lot earlier after a man stole an excavator and began ripping up the ground. 

Here’s something you don’t see everyday, someone stole an excavator and drove it nearly a mile to 800 South 900 West where he started ripping up the ground. The suspect is in custody and utility crews are assessing the damage. #slc #slcpd #saltlakecity pic.twitter.com/VSfnR44xOp

— Salt Lake City Police (@slcpd) August 6, 2022

The man, identified as 46-year-old Omar Ortega, reportedly stole the excavator and drove a mile to 800 South 900 West where he began digging up the ground. A water main was ruptured and some google fiber wires were ripped up. 

Responding officers stopped and arrested Ortega. He has been charged with felony theft and felony criminal mischief.

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