High-speed chase of stolen truck ends in crash in L.A. County
A driver in a stolen pickup truck led authorities on a wild pursuit that spanned multiple freeways and surface streets in Los Angeles County on Friday night. The chase ended when the suspect crashed into a drainage canal and fled on foot.
The suspect live-streamed the pursuit
The pursuit began around 9 p.m. in the Ontario area, where the black SUV was reported stolen. The suspect drove at speeds over 100 miles per hour on the 60 Freeway, then transitioned to the 110 Freeway, heading toward downtown L.A.
The driver was reportedly live-streaming the pursuit and watching news coverage of the chase on his phone. There were also reports that the driver planned to ditch the vehicle near the 2nd Street tunnel in downtown, but he changed his mind and continued driving.
The suspect drove erratically and dangerously
The suspect showed no regard for the safety of other drivers or pedestrians as he swerved between lanes, ran red lights, and drove the wrong way on several occasions. He narrowly missed multiple collisions and cut off other vehicles, causing some to brake or swerve to avoid him.
The suspect also taunted the pursuing officers by waving his hand out of the window and making gestures. He appeared to be enjoying the thrill of the chase, as he smiled and laughed while driving recklessly.
The suspect crashed and ran away
The pursuit reached its dramatic conclusion when the suspect entered the Norwalk area and drove into a drainage canal. The vehicle hit a concrete barrier and flipped over, landing on its roof. The suspect then crawled out of the window and ran away from the scene.
Authorities quickly surrounded the area and searched for the suspect with the help of a helicopter and K-9 units. The suspect was eventually located and taken into custody without further incident. He was identified as a 25-year-old man from Riverside County. He faces multiple charges, including grand theft auto, evading arrest, and reckless driving.