Bay Area/ Oakland

Fremont Police Deploy Drone to Apprehend Burglary Suspect in Late-Night Chase

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Published on March 19, 2024
Fremont Police Deploy Drone to Apprehend Burglary Suspect in Late-Night ChaseSource: Fremont Police Department

Early this month, in the dead of night, a burglary suspect was apprehended with the help of modern technology. Fremont Police Department utilized a drone to track down and arrest the alleged burglar, identified as Keb Hully, 37, in a scenario that sounds like it's straight out of a cop show — but it's real. The incident occurred on March 8, around 12:30 a.m., after officers responded swiftly to a reported burglary in progress at a commercial building near Osgood Rd. and Washington Blvd.

The situation quickly evolved when officers realized they couldn't immediately access the building due to a locked gate. This is when the department's Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) team launched their drone to create a virtual net around the property. The drone operator managed to quickly locate Hully attempting to make his escape. He was watched from above as he ran under an overpass, darted across nearby train tracks, and into an unsuspecting neighborhood.

According to an X post by the Fremont Police Department, the drone operator relayed live updates on Hully's location to the officers on the ground. This coordination allowed them to catch up to the suspect who was on the run, resulting in a prompt arrest. Hully now faces charges for second-degree burglary and possession of burglary tools, per the penal code.

The success of this operation is a nod to the department's technological capabilities, turning to drone surveillance when physical barriers prevent traditional measures. It's also a reminder for the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. Fremont PD urges people to speak up when they see something by calling their non-emergency line or texting their anonymous tip line. In an emergency, the police department reminds citizens to not hesitate to dial 911.