Last night's high-speed chase involving a recklessly driven grey BMW ended with the driver behind bars after a dangerous escapade through Santa Rosa. The incident, which began around 9 PM when a Sonoma County Sheriff's Deputy attempted to pull over the vehicle on Santa Rosa Ave. near Todd Rd., escalated quickly as the driver refused to comply. According to the Sonoma Sheriff's Office, the deputy abandoned the chase near Santa Rosa Ave and Yolanda Ave, fearing public safety as the offender sped towards northbound Hwy 101.
The search continued from the skies with Henry-1, the Sonoma Sheriff's helicopter, using thermal imaging cameras to track the heat signature of the speeding BMW's brakes. The helicopter crew monitored the car as it raced through the area of Hwy 101 and Hwy 12 interchange, narrating its movements to ground units. Despite the helicopter's eye in the sky, deputies on the ground once again ceased pursuit on Wilson St. because the safety of Santa Rosa's residents could not be compromised by the high-speed chase.
The driver's relentless flight led to another interception attempt by an oblivious Santa Rosa Police Officer. The vehicle's desperate turns through city streets culminated in a loss of control, resulting in a crash into a wall and tree on the 400 block of S A St. Subsequently, law enforcement apprehended the individual, who now faces multiple charges, including reckless driving and felony evading.
After the crash, the Santa Rosa Police Department and Sonoma County Sheriff's Office collaborated to book the suspect, who is currently held accountable for the string of violations. Authorities have not released the identity of the driver, pending further investigation.
