MARINA, CA — On June 25, 2026, Marina Police officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a blue Honda Nighthawk 750 carrying two riders near southbound Highway 1 and Reservation Road. The motorcycle, which was traveling at speeds exceeding 100 mph, failed to yield and led officers on a pursuit spanning approximately 10 miles. Law enforcement terminated the pursuit in the City of Monterey to ensure public safety.
Following an investigation that utilized a seizure warrant and Flock Automated License Plate Readers (ALPRs), officers identified a potential location for the suspect. On June 26, 2026, at approximately 11:03 p.m., officers located the motorcycle and rider near Monte Road and Twin Bridges. When officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the rider fled, initiating a subsequent one-mile pursuit. The rider lost control at the intersection of Monte Road and Nashua Road, sliding into an embankment and falling off the motorcycle.
The operator was identified as 56 year old Steven Dale Metzler of Salinas. A records check indicated that Metzler had an active felony warrant for Post Release Community Supervision. Officers also discovered he was in possession of methamphetamine. Metzler was booked on multiple charges, and the motorcycle was impounded.
