A man has been arrested after a 24-tonne (24,000 kg) earthmover was stolen from Staffordshire and driven through Wolverhampton city centre and on to a dual carriageway.
West Midlands Police said they were alerted to the construction vehicle after it crossed the border into Wolverhampton just before 17:40 GMT.
The force said it damaged road surfaces and after moving through the city centre, was driven onto the A4150 dual carriageway, before coming to a stop on New Road, Willenhall, at 20:15.
A 41-year-old man was arrested on suspicion of drink driving, dangerous driving, threat to damage or destroy property, theft, and failing to stop.
He is also being held on suspicion of taking a conveyance without consent, and using threatening, abusive or insulting words and behaviour to cause harassment.
The man remains in police custody.