An Atmore man is in jail on attempted murder charges after attempting to strike police officers with his vehicle on Dec. 20, according to the Atmore Police Department.

Sgt. Robby Williams said in a press release that Marvin Angelo Moorer, 53, of Atmore, was arrested and charged with attempted murder, fleeing and attempting to elude and possession of a controlled substance.

Williams said officers responded to a complaint of a theft from a local auto parts store on Dec. 20.

“Upon their arrival, they were advised that the thief had stolen item(s) that were valued at approximately $100,” Williams said in the release. “Store personnel provided officers with a detailed description of the thief and his vehicle, including the license plate number.”

Williams said a short time later, APD officers observed a vehilce and driver matching the description on M.L. King Avenue.

“Officers approached the driver (Moorer) of the vehicle,” he said. “Moorer refused to comply with orders and sped away, but then circled back and intentionally tried to strike the officers with his vehicle. The officers were able to avoid being struck by Moorer’s vehicle, but Moorer struck a patrol vehicle, causing severe damage before fleeing.”

Williams said other officers pursued Moorer as he fled and eluded.

“Several officers joined the pursuit and were eventually able to surround Moorer’s vehicle and safely force him to stop,” he said.