EAGAN, MINNESOTA—The new Grappler device, announced by the Eagan Police Department in July, has already proven its effectiveness in the field. On Saturday, August 30, officers from the Eagan Police Department used the device to safely end a vehicle pursuit that began in Eagan and continued into the city of St. Paul, Minnesota. You can read our original story on the Grappler Device here: Eagan Police Department Becomes First in Minnesota to Add Grappler Pursuit-Prevention Device to Police Fleet.
The incident started around 3:29 p.m. when officers attempted to stop a 2000 white Toyota Tundra towing a U-Haul trailer after the driver ran a red light at Yankee Doodle Road and Denmark Avenue. The driver refused to stop, sparking a pursuit that led officers into the city of St. Paul, Minnesota.
Grappler Put to the Test
Near the intersection of Otto Avenue and Shepard Road in St. Paul, an Eagan Police Chevy Tahoe outfitted with the Grappler took over as the lead squad in the chase. As the suspect slowed to make a turn, the officer deployed the Grappler device, which is a heavy-duty strap that entangles a fleeing vehicle’s rear tire, bringing the pursuit to an immediate halt.
The suspect fled on foot but was apprehended moments later. Authorities say the adult male driver will face multiple charges, including:
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Fleeing Police in a Motor Vehicle
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Fleeing Police on Foot
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Driving After Revocation
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No Proof of Insurance
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Failure to Obey a Traffic Control Device
A Tool for Safer Outcomes
Eagan Police announced the Grappler program on July 20, 2025, stating they were one of the first departments in Minnesota to adopt the technology. The system is designed to reduce the risks that vehicle pursuits pose to officers, suspects, and the public.
This marks the first known deployment of the Grappler by the Eagan Police Department since its rollout, demonstrating its potential as a pursuit-ending tool.
Written by: Will Wight
Video Provided by the Eagan Police Department
