An alarming assault occurred near Saints Peter and Paul Church in North Beach, San Francisco, yesterday. The resulting multi-county pursuit culminated in the detention of a suspect who had reportedly thrown "suspicious devices" at police officers during the chase, per CBS News.
According to the San Francisco Police Officers Association, authorities initially responded to an assault, encountering an individual with an improvised device. The suspect then fled with regional law enforcement following. With assistance from the California Highway Patrol, the alleged assailant was taken into custody in a neighboring county.
PRELIMINARY REPORT: Assault at Saints Peter and Paul Church in North Beach. Responding officers encountered a suspect with an improvised device. A pursuit occurred. Suspect apprehended by SFPD in another county. If you are a witness or have video, contact SFPD at 415-575-4444. pic.twitter.com/POzUsftpwW
— San Francisco POA (@SanFranciscoPOA) October 30, 2023
Throughout this ordeal, authorities encountered multiple suspicious devices thrown from the suspect's vehicle. These incidents, particularly at the intersection of 8th and Mission streets, led the police to advise the public to avoid the area. As of now, there have been no reported injuries or property damages.
Aaron Peskin, San Francisco's supervisor for the North Beach neighborhood, revealed additional details to KPIX about these events. Peskin alleged that the suspect ignited a pipe bomb on Jones Street and a Molotov cocktail at the intersection of 8th and Mission Streets, according to CBS News. Following these threatening incidents, authorities have requested for any witnesses, or those with video or photographic evidence, to assist in their investigation.
San Francisco police have issued public appeals for information pertaining to the case. They have also advised citizens to immediately alert 911 if suspicious objects are discovered in the city, strictly cautioning against approaching or moving such items.
