Rhode Island Home Invasion Suspect Caught After 1,200-Mile Ferrari Chase to Florida
A 19-year-old man accused of orchestrating a dangerous crime spree spanning four states, including an armed home invasion in Rhode Island, has been apprehended in Florida. Johnathan Costa was arrested in Palm Coast on Tuesday, Aug. 27, after being surrounded by Flagler County deputies at a residence on Royal Palm Lane.
The apprehension followed a multi-state chase involving a stolen 2018 Ferrari Spider convertible, which law enforcement said Costa used to evade authorities at speeds exceeding 100 mph, even through school zones.
Crime Spree Begins with Armed Home Invasion
The series of events began in Cranston, Rhode Island, on Aug. 24, when two masked men armed with handguns broke into a family home at 3:20 a.m. The suspects reportedly demanded the keys to the Ferrari and a Chevy Corvette parked in the garage.
“It was clear from the onset that this was not a random act,” Cranston police said. One of the suspects was found to have a prior indirect connection to a resident of the targeted home.
Cross-State Chase Ends in Florida
Following the home invasion, Costa and an accomplice led police on high-speed chases across Rhode Island, Connecticut, New York, and eventually Florida. Each time, Costa reportedly used the Ferrari’s speed to outmaneuver law enforcement.
Costa’s whereabouts were uncovered after Flagler County detectives determined he might be hiding at a friend’s home in Palm Coast. Deputies discovered the stolen Ferrari behind the residence, prompting them to establish a perimeter and issue commands for Costa to surrender. Costa complied without incident.
“Thankfully, he was captured before his joyride turned fatal,” said Flagler County Sheriff Rick Staly in a statement. “This criminal put everyone on the road at risk, and he’s lucky to be behind bars instead of dead behind the wheel.”
Charges and Co-Conspirator’s Arrest
Costa faces multiple charges, including being a fugitive from justice, entering a dwelling with felonious intent, using a firearm during a violent crime, and conspiracy. His 18-year-old accomplice, believed to have also been involved in the Rhode Island home invasion, surrendered to North Providence police hours after Costa’s arrest.
Law Enforcement’s Warning
The sheriff’s office highlighted the dangers of the suspect’s reckless actions, particularly speeding through school zones. Sheriff Staly underscored the importance of bringing Costa to justice to prevent further harm.
The case remains under investigation, with authorities in multiple states working to piece together the full extent of Costa’s alleged crimes.
