Los Angeles, CA – Two armed suspects led authorities on a dangerous overnight pursuit across Los Angeles County, stealing at least three vehicles — including a semi-truck — and repeatedly driving the wrong way on freeways from Lancaster to Boyle Heights, according to law enforcement.
The chase began around 10:20 p.m. Sunday when Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) deputies responded to a vehicle theft in the 2100 block of Benfar Drive in Lancaster.
Shots Fired During Vehicle Theft
When deputies arrived, the victim reported that two Hispanic men had stolen his black Ford F-250 pickup truck. The victim attempted to follow the suspects in another vehicle, during which the suspects allegedly fired gunshots at him.
Deputies in an airship located the stolen truck traveling the wrong way on the 14 Freeway. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) took over the pursuit from that point.
String of Vehicle Thefts
As per KTLA, the authorities believe the suspects committed at least three carjackings during the pursuit.
- First vehicle: The stolen Ford F-250 in Lancaster.
- Second vehicle: A semi-truck taken after the suspects drove the pickup the wrong way on the 5 Freeway near Roxford Street in Sylmar. Footage showed one suspect attempting to enter a white sedan before returning to the pickup, which eventually confronted a big rig believed to be the semi they stole.
- Third vehicle: A white pickup truck stolen after abandoning the semi-truck near Alameda Street in downtown Los Angeles.
The suspects drove both the pickup and semi-truck on freeways and surface streets, often going against traffic, creating extreme danger for other motorists.
Pursuit Ends in Boyle Heights
The white pickup was found abandoned in Boyle Heights near Mission Road and Aliso Street. No arrests were made, and as of 7 a.m. Monday, the suspects remain at large.
Authorities have not released further descriptions of the suspects, and the investigation is ongoing.
Public Safety Concerns During Dangerous Pursuits
Driving the wrong way on a freeway is among the most dangerous behaviors in police pursuits, often resulting in head-on collisions and fatalities. Public safety officials urge residents to:
- Move to the right and slow down immediately if they see a vehicle coming the wrong way
- Avoid engaging with suspects or attempting to follow them
- Call 911 to report dangerous driving behavior and provide location details
Law enforcement agencies continue to review policies on when to terminate chases to reduce risks to the public.
What changes, if any, should law enforcement make when suspects create extreme danger during pursuits? Share your views in the comments section below and join the conversation.
