Lawrence Police assisted other area police forces Sunday in searching for a man who fled in two stolen cars and burglarized several homes.

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers Sunday morning followed a driver in a stolen Jefferson County SUV, heading from Lawrence to Overland Park along Kansas Highway 10, according to Overland Park police.

Troopers caught up to him in Overland Park, where he drove through several yards and fences near the 8200 blocks of Craig and Hardy streets while trying to get away.

The suspect, a male, then ditched the SUV and broke into two homes – one of which was occupied at the time – stealing a purse and another car parked in the driveway.

Then the suspect led troopers back to Lawrence along K-10, this time with a helicopter following to help with the search.

Lawrence Police located the stolen vehicle near the Graystone Apartments, 2512 W. Sixth St., but could not find the suspect.