Cory Coddington, 46, faces a slew of charges including aggravated assault, carjacking, petit theft and leaving the scene of a crash after authorities say he led police on a bizarre crime spree that began with a single-vehicle accident in Deerfield Beach, Florida.
Background
The incident occurred shortly before noon Saturday in the 500 block of East Hillsboro Boulevard. Dispatch received multiple reports after Coddington apparently wrapped his SUV around a tree, according to the Broward County Sheriff's Office. Witnesses say he was injured and covered in blood following the crash.
Shyann Figaro told WSVN she witnessed the collision and approached Coddington's vehicle to check on him. The Good Samaritan had no idea what was about to happen.
"He stole my car," Figaro said. "When I stopped, I got out of my car and he ended up taking my car and driving off with it."
Coddington allegedly drove the stolen vehicle to a nearby Chick-fil-A location while still bleeding from the crash. Witnesses described watching him exit the vehicle in distress, with what appeared to be injuries requiring medical attention.
The Investigation
Laurence Lebel was among those who observed Coddington's arrival at the fast food restaurant. She told WTVJ that another customer approached the bloodied suspect to ask if he needed help.
"A guy asked him, 'Are you okay?' and he said, 'Does it look like I'm okay?'" Lebel recalled.
In a moment that captured national attention, Coddington allegedly snatched a french fry from a child inside the restaurant. Witnesses say he also expressed a desire for a milkshake before departing. The child was later provided with replacement fries at no charge, according to reports.
Deputies tracked Coddington to a nearby gas station where they confronted him. Authorities allege he became combative with law enforcement before being taken into custody. He was transported to an area hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the crash.
During his arrest and subsequent processing, deputies say they recovered more than 10 grams of MDMA—widely known as ecstasy or molly—from Coddington's possession.
Key Takeaways
- Coddington allegedly crashed his SUV into a tree before carjacking Shyann Figaro, who stopped to render aid
- The suspect drove the stolen vehicle to a Chick-fil-A while covered in blood from the crash
- Witnesses say he grabbed a french fry from a child and asked about getting a milkshake
- Deputies apprehended him at a gas station after a brief confrontation
- More than 10 grams of MDMA was recovered during Coddington's arrest, according to BSO
What's Next
Coddington remains in custody facing multiple charges including aggravated assault, carjacking, petit theft and leaving the scene of a crash. His next court appearance has not yet been scheduled. The woman whose vehicle was stolen was not injured during the incident.
The Broward County Sheriff's Office continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding both the crash and the subsequent alleged crimes.