Royal Oak, Michigan – A Royal Oak woman was taken into custody after a high-speed police chase ended with her SUV crashing into Ulta Beauty on Woodward Avenue early Sunday morning. The incident unfolded at approximately 12:40 a.m. on Nov. 9, drawing attention from law enforcement and residents alike.
Police Confrontation on Train Tracks
According to Royal Oak Police, officers responded to reports of a white SUV driving on train tracks near West Fourth Street and South Center Street. When authorities located the vehicle, they approached the driver, who refused to cooperate.
Officials observed that one tire was going flat and noticed an open container of alcohol inside the SUV. When asked for her driver’s license, the driver fled northbound on Washington Avenue, initiating a tense pursuit.
High-Speed Chase Through Royal Oak
The chase continued west on Farnum Avenue to Oakridge Avenue, eventually ending at an alley parallel to northbound Woodward Avenue. Police reported that the driver turned into the alley and accelerated into the parking lot of Ulta Beauty at 27844 Woodward Avenue, where she lost control and crashed into the building.
Despite her SUV being lodged inside the store, the woman attempted to flee again, backing up and striking a patrol car. She continued driving into the store, causing thousands of dollars in additional damage before becoming trapped on debris.
Arrest and Charges
The driver was identified as 26-year-old Katrina Deann-Renee Patterson of Canton. A male passenger in the vehicle was also arrested but later released after receiving a citation for having open alcohol in a motor vehicle.
Patterson is suspected of driving under the influence, pending blood test results. Both Patterson and her passenger were medically evaluated for minor injuries from the crash. No officers were injured during the incident, according to the reports.
On Nov. 10, Patterson was arraigned in the 44th District Court. She faces multiple felony charges, including:
- Fleeing police
- Assaulting officers
- Malicious destruction of property and a building
Her criminal history includes a 2023 conviction for operating while intoxicated in Port Huron. Bond was set at $50,000 cash, no 10%, and her next court appearance is scheduled for Nov. 21, 2025.
The crash caused significant damage to the Ulta Beauty building, leaving employees and customers shaken. Authorities are investigating the full extent of structural damage and assessing how quickly the store can resume normal operations.
Safety Reminder
Incidents like these highlight the risks of driving under the influence and the importance of cooperating with law enforcement. Residents are reminded to report reckless driving and to remain aware of ongoing investigations in their neighborhoods.
Share Your Thoughts
What do you think about this high-speed chase ending in a store crash? Have you witnessed dangerous driving in your area recently? Comment below with your thoughts and experiences!
