A Colorado man has been sentenced to 26 years in prison for kidnapping a woman who stopped to help him after a car crash. Shane McSwane, 29, pleaded guilty to kidnapping and attempted aggravated robbery on June 12, according to the Pueblo County District Attorney's Office.
Incident Details
The incident occurred on May 25, 2025, when Grace Dotson witnessed a car crash in Aurora. She stopped her vehicle to call 911, but McSwane, who was involved in the crash, forced his way into her car and kidnapped her. Over the next four hours, McSwane drove erratically on Interstate 25, occasionally allowing Dotson to answer phone calls from her terrified family.
Gas Station Threat and Police Chase
McSwane stopped at a gas station in Colorado City, where he threatened to shoot a clerk while asking for a lighter. Deputies responded and identified the vehicle as the one reported carjacked. A high-speed pursuit ensued, with McSwane attempting to evade police. Spike strips deployed by Huerfano County deputies flattened the tires, but McSwane continued driving. Pueblo County deputies performed a PIT maneuver, and he was arrested.
Sentencing and Charges
Judge sentenced McSwane to two consecutive 13-year terms, totaling 26 years. He must serve 85 percent of his sentence, making him eligible for parole after 22.1 years. Initial charges, including unlawful sexual contact, were dropped as part of a plea agreement. Dotson and the gas station clerk were unharmed. The DA's office expressed gratitude that Dotson is alive and praised law enforcement for their efforts.
