High-Speed Pursuit Ends in Arrest and Recovery of Firearm in City Heights

Above: Seized Firearm | Courtesy of San Diego PD

Originally Published by San Diego PD’s Official Facebook Page

An attempted traffic stop in the City Heights neighborhood, initially for equipment violations, escalated into a dramatic 1.4-mile pursuit that ended with multiple arrests and the removal of a firearm from the streets.

The incident unfolded when officers from the Mid-City Division of the local police department initiated a routine traffic stop involving a white Acura TL due to equipment violations. However, what began as a routine stop took a dangerous turn as the driver of the Acura chose to evade the officers’ lights and sirens, prompting a high-speed pursuit.

To aid in the pursuit and ensure public safety, the police department deployed their aerial support unit, known as ABLE, which hovered above the scene, providing critical assistance to officers on the ground. The pursuit continued for a distance of 1.4 miles, during which the Acura made evasive maneuvers to elude law enforcement.

The high-stakes chase ultimately came to a halt when the Acura reached a dead-end, leaving the driver with no escape route. Law enforcement officers were quick to secure the scene and took all three occupants of the vehicle into custody.

Upon further investigation, it was discovered that two of the individuals apprehended were in violation of their probation conditions. During a search of the vehicle, officers made a concerning discovery: a handgun magazine loaded with seven .40-caliber bullets was found concealed beneath the front passenger seat.

A review of ABLE’s aerial footage provided crucial evidence, capturing one of the suspects disposing of a firearm from the left rear passenger window during the pursuit.

All three individuals involved in the incident were subsequently arrested and later booked into jail to face a range of charges. These charges include felony evading, probation violations, and being a felon in possession of a handgun and ammunition.

Local authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding this incident as they work to uphold the safety and security of City Heights and its residents.