Police said a suspected thief stole a car near an East Side night club and ended up trying to hide at the Rodeo Carnival.

Investigators said it happened Saturday night at Houston and Commerce. A security guard was on his normal patrol, but left his car running.

Police said the suspected thief got in the car and took off, but for some reason drove back as officers were taking a report on the theft.

A chase ensued and ended when the suspect crashed into a fence at the rodeo grounds. He then hid under a ride.

Officers said they had to use a police helicopter to locate him. He was arrested and will be charged with auto theft and evading arrest, police said.