Suspect in Airport Theft Dies in Crash

A 33-year-old man named Alexander Komthongpane, who was a suspect in a series of vehicle part thefts at Charlotte Douglas International Airport, died in a car crash following a police chase on August 22. Between August 18 and 20, CMPD reported multiple incidents of wheels and tires being stolen from parked BMWs at the airport. During a traffic stop attempt for a seatbelt violation, Komthongpane fled, lost control of his vehicle, and crashed into a tree, resulting in his death. Authorities later confirmed that the wheels on his vehicle were also stolen from the airport thefts. Komthongpane was previously known to the police for multiple theft-related offenses, including catalytic converter thefts. This incident has raised concerns among airport users about safety and crime in the parking areas.