What started as a quick liquor grab at a Del Mar grocery store turned into a short police pursuit and a suspect hiding out in thick brush near a neighborhood school, San Diego police say.
On Monday, officers say two men stole more than $900 worth of alcohol from the Ralphs at Del Mar Highlands Town Center. A traffic stop attempt turned into a brief chase, and one of the suspects bailed from the car and ran toward Del Mar Pines School, where officers say he tried to disappear into heavy brush before they arrested him. The second suspect managed to escape, and investigators are now asking the public to help locate him.
According to FOX5 San Diego, the two male suspects were seen leaving the store in a white sedan and are accused of taking more than $900 in alcohol. Officers tried to stop the vehicle in the 3900 block of Torrington Street, and one man ran into the brush near Del Mar Pines School before officers took him into custody, Lt. Travis Easter told the station. Police say the arrested man has been charged with burglary.
The San Diego Police Department is seeking information from anyone with knowledge about the incident or the second suspect to contact investigators. The San Diego Police Department notes that non-emergency tips can be reported at 619-531-2000 or through the department's online contact portal.
Where It Happened And What Was Taken
The theft was reported at the Ralphs Fresh Fare inside Del Mar Highlands Town Center at 3455 Del Mar Heights Road. The center's directory identifies the Del Mar location and confirms that the store carries groceries and liquor, according to the Del Mar Highlands Town Center listing.
Investigation And Charges
FOX5 San Diego reports that the man taken into custody was charged with burglary, and detectives are reviewing surveillance video and neighborhood tips as they work to identify the second suspect. The investigation remains active, and additional charges or developments could follow as detectives analyze footage and other evidence.
How To Help
Anyone with information about the theft or the whereabouts of the second suspect is urged to call SDPD's non-emergency line at 619-531-2000 or submit tips via the department's contact page at San Diego Police Department. Police advise residents not to confront suspects and instead share any relevant video, photos, or vehicle descriptions with investigators.
