BEND, OR -- A Bend woman is accused of stealing a car from a local restaurant, then driving while under the influence of drugs. 

Bend Police were dispatched to a report of a stolen vehicle in the parking lot of Burger King on North Highway 97, just after 11 p.m. Tuesday. The vehicle’s owner had been warming up the purple 2008 Hyundai Elantra. The car was unlocked and keys were in the ignition. 

Officers interviewed multiple witnesses who saw a woman acting erratically near Chevron and Burger King  moments before the vehicle was taken. One witness had video of the suspect. Officers recognized the suspect as 34-year-old Maritza Ivy Gomez. She'd been trespassed earlier in the night from Best Western on Grandview Drive.

They found the vehicle and Gomez in the parking lot of the Best Western. The vehicle was released to the victim at the scene. Gomez was arrested for DUII – drugs and unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and taken to jail. She was also cited for a violation for possession of a controlled substance – methamphetamine.

The Bend Police Department reminds everyone to never leave a car running and unattended. Remember when you park your vehicle to HIDE your belongings, LOCK your vehicle and TAKE your keys with you.

BPD launched the Hide, Lock, Take initiative this week.