Woodlake Police Reportedly Arrest Wanted Felon Who Hid in Orchard
CENTRAL CALIFORNIA — “In the afternoon hours of October 6, 2025, the Woodlake Police Department requested assistance from Kings County Sheriff’s Office- Air 1, regarding a search for a wanted felon.
The suspect, 31-year-old Mario Ibarra Lemus, had led Woodlake Police officer’s on a vehicle pursuit before crashing in an orchard. Lemus then fled on foot and officers were unable to locate him after an extensive search. Woodlake Police officer’s, with the assistance of several other law enforcement agencies, maintained a perimeter around the large orchard and requested the assistance of Air-1.
Air-1 responded to the location and after approximately five minutes, the crew of Air-1 spotted Lemus hiding in a tree within the orchard. The crew of Air-1 directed officer’s on the ground to Lemus’ location, however he refused to surrender. A law enforcement K-9 was utilized to take Lemus safely in to custody. Lemus was treated for his injuries and later booked in to the Tulare County Jail.
In addition to this vehicle pursuit, Lemus was also wanted for numerous other vehicle pursuits with various law enforcement agencies throughout Tulare County during the past few weeks.”
