
A routine traffic stop escalated into a pursuit and subsequent arrest of two Gilroy men this past weekend, with local authorities announcing the incident Monday. According to the Gilroy Police Department's social media post, officers encountered a man unresponsive behind the wheel in a parking lot who, upon being awakened, injured three officers as he fled the scene. The encounter, which started with the spotting of drug paraphernalia, led to a high-speed chase that was later called off due to safety concerns.
The individual, 24-year-old Keanu Castro, was located and arrested on Monday without incident at a local motel. Castro now faces charges including assault with a deadly weapon, possession of narcotics, and possession of a firearm. In tandem, a second man, Thomas Rodriguez, aged 22, was also taken into custody at the motel for narcotics possession for sale and gun possession. The incident unfolded on Sunday after a Gilroy patrol officer sighted Castro in his vehicle.
No serious injuries were reported among the Gilroy police officers involved in the initial interaction and the subsequent chase. "Our officers demonstrated exceptional professionalism and restraint during a dangerous situation, ensuring the safety of the community while pursuing and apprehending the suspect," said Chief Pedro Espinoza, as per the Gilroy Police Department.