WARREN, Texas — A 17-year-old Warren resident was arrested Sunday after Tyler County deputies located a stolen truck at a residence on County Road 1325, according to the Tyler County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff’s officials said the incident occurred on Sunday, Jan. 18, 2026, at approximately 1:45 p.m., while deputies were patrolling the area. Deputies observed a flatbed Dodge truck parked at a residence that matched the description of a vehicle reported stolen out of Polk County.

Upon entering the yard, deputies noted the truck did not have visible license plates and showed extensive damage, including multiple broken windows. Authorities also discovered that the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) located beneath the windshield had been removed. However, the registration sticker remained affixed to the windshield, allowing deputies to obtain registration information.

A check through the Texas Crime Information Center confirmed the vehicle was a 1999 Dodge Ram 3500 that had been reported stolen from Polk County.

Deputies made contact with the homeowner, who stated that a male had brought the truck to the residence and was still present. The individual was identified as Christopher Ausmus, 17, of Warren.

According to the sheriff’s office, Ausmus admitted to being in possession of and driving the vehicle and stated that he knew the truck was stolen.

Ausmus was arrested and transported to the Tyler County Jail, where he was charged with Felony Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle. Justice of the Peace Mike Hughes set bond at $10,000.

The investigation remains ongoing.