Raleigh, NC – A 21-year-old man from Raleigh is facing a long list of serious charges — and potentially up to 52 years in prison — after allegedly ramming police cruisers, leading officers on a high-speed chase, and triggering an hours-long SWAT standoff earlier this month.
Multi-Day Crime Spree Unfolds Across Raleigh
The suspect, Elmer Bautista-Candela, appeared in court Thursday, where a judge set his bond at $750,000, citing his potential danger to the public and a prior history of missing court appearances. Prosecutors outlined a multi-day pursuit that started with a stolen tool incident and escalated into violent confrontations with law enforcement.
The chain of events began on Saturday, Aug. 17, when police responded to Thistlebrook Court for a car break-in. Bautista-Candela allegedly stole $700 worth of construction tools, then rammed his red pickup truck head-on into a Raleigh police cruiser and sideswiped another vehicle, injuring one officer’s leg in the process.
WakeMed Connection Leads to Identification
Authorities were able to identify Bautista-Candela through surveillance footage and records from WakeMed Hospital, where he’s also facing pending charges for attempting to steal a motorcycle in a June 27th incident.
“Video footage was circulated, and a WakeMed officer recognized him from a prior motorcycle theft,” prosecutors told the court. “This connection proved instrumental in building a case against the suspect.”
High-Speed Chase Reaches 115 MPH
On Aug. 21, officers attempted to arrest Bautista-Candela at a location on Solar Drive. Instead, he reportedly stole another truck and initiated a high-speed chase, reaching 115 mph in a 45-mph zone. During the pursuit, he allegedly crashed into multiple vehicles before ditching the truck and fleeing on foot.
That led to a tense standoff on Bashford Road, where the suspect barricaded himself inside a home. As per WRAL, SWAT team was ultimately deployed to bring the standoff to an end and take him into custody.
Charges and Legal Consequences
Bautista-Candela is facing a wide range of charges, including:
- Two counts of assault with a deadly weapon with intent to kill (targeting emergency workers)
- Larceny of a motor vehicle
- Fleeing to elude arrest with a motor vehicle
- Probation violation stemming from a separate assault conviction
If convicted on all counts, he could spend up to 52 years behind bars.
Previous Convictions and Probation Violation
Adding to the gravity of the case, court records show that Bautista-Candela was on probation for assault when these events occurred. His repeated contact with law enforcement and blatant disregard for commands fueled prosecutors’ arguments that he poses a serious public safety risk.
Next Steps in the Case
Bautista-Candela remains behind bars ahead of his next court date scheduled for September 11. Prosecutors are expected to present further evidence, including bodycam footage, crash scene photos, and surveillance recordings that connect him to the crimes.
What do you think about the rising number of dangerous police chases in our cities? Should suspects like this be held without bond? Share your thoughts below.
