A 32-year-old Topeka man accused of fleeing from police was arrested for auto theft Thursday, though charges will not immediately be filed against him, a spokeswoman for Douglas County District Attorney Charles Branson said.

The suspect was arrested about 10 p.m. Thursday near Sixth and Massachusetts streets.

He was driving a red 1996 sport utility vehicle, which was reported stolen Thursday morning in Topeka, Lawrence police said.

When an officer attempted to stop the SUV, the suspect ran from the vehicle, police said.

“The individual bolted, and the officer pursued the person on foot,” said Lawrence Police Sgt. Susan Hadl.

Police said the man ran east along nearby railroad tracks before circling through 1 Riverfront Plaza at Sixth and New Hampshire streets. He then returned to the Jeep, where police arrested him.

Officers arrested the man for auto theft, as well as for several outstanding warrants. A woman in the vehicle was released without charges.

Douglas County prosecutors have referred the case back to police for further information before they’ll consider charges, a spokeswoman said.

The suspect, who was booked into Douglas County Jail, is expected to be transported to Shawnee County, where he’s wanted on a warrant, said Douglas County Sheriff’s Sgt. Steve Lewis.