Alabama Man Identified as Deceased Suspect Found in Grand Lake Following Attempted Theft

CELINA, OH – Authorities have officially identified the man found deceased in Grand Lake following a pursuit related to an attempted vehicle theft at a local dealership.

The Celina Police Department confirmed on Monday that the individual is 47-year-old Alvin Lee Stabler, originally of Hoover, Alabama. Investigators noted that Stabler had most recently been residing in Fort Wayne, Indiana.

The Christmas Night Pursuit
The incident began on the evening of Christmas Day, December 25, 2025. At approximately 7:00 p.m., Celina officers responded to a car alarm at Bud’s Chrysler on South Main Street.

Upon arrival, an officer discovered a masked individual inside a pickup truck. The suspect immediately fled on foot, leading police on a chase across U.S. Route 127 and toward West Bank Road. Despite a search of the residential area near the Community Medical Center, the suspect managed to evade capture in the darkness.

Surveillance Footage Leads to Discovery
The investigation took a turn on December 26 when a local resident reviewed private security footage. The video showed the suspect—later identified as Stabler—hiding behind a retaining wall to avoid patrolling officers before jumping into Grand Lake.
The footage did not show the individual ever exiting the water.

On the morning of December 27, the Celina Fire Department conducted a water search and recovered Stabler’s body. Along with the recovery, investigators found burglary tools, including a specialized device used to reprogram vehicle security and ignition systems.

Investigation Ongoing: Police Seek Public Tips
While the identity of the deceased has been confirmed through family and law enforcement resources, the case remains an active investigation.

Detective A.J. Poppe is leading the inquiry and is asking anyone with information regarding Alvin Lee Stabler’s recent activities or the incident itself to come forward.

How to provide information:
• Phone: 419-586-2345
• Email: a.poppe@celinaohiopd.gov

Video Evidence: Security footage of the incident courtesy of the Celina Police Department.




The Celina Police Department extended its gratitude to the Mercer County Sheriff’s Office, the Celina Fire Department, and Mercer County Coroner Dr. Alysa Tobe for their assistance in the recovery and identification process.