A stolen Toyota Corolla turned Highway 70 into a rolling crime scene Thursday, when deputies say a 38-year-old Red Bluff woman refused to pull over in Oroville and instead took off toward Marysville. The car finally gave out after smashing into a fence, and the driver’s brief attempt to escape on foot ended with her in handcuffs. Investigators said the Corolla had been reported stolen out of the Magalia area.
Deputies Say Pursuit Kicked Off Near Oro Dam Boulevard
According to the Butte County Sheriff's Office, a sergeant first spotted the 2017 Toyota Corolla near Oro Dam Boulevard and Lincoln Boulevard and tried to make a traffic stop. Instead of pulling over, the driver allegedly hit the gas. The pursuit moved onto Highway 70 and continued toward the Marysville area, where the car collided with a fence and became disabled. Deputies called in mutual aid while they locked down the scene and closed in on the suspect.
Driver ID’d as Red Bluff Woman, Booked on Multiple Counts
As reported by Action News Now, deputies identified the driver as 38-year-old Richelle Zuniga of Red Bluff. She was booked on several charges that include possession of a stolen vehicle, evading a peace officer with wanton disregard for public safety, driving the wrong way while evading, and obstructing or resisting arrest. The sheriff’s office also reported that Zuniga had a confirmed felony PRCS warrant outstanding at the time she was taken into custody.
Fence Crash Ends Chase, Marysville Police Join In
Per the Butte County Sheriff's Office, the pursuit wrapped up in the Marysville area when the Corolla slammed into a fence and could not move any farther. The Marysville Police Department responded to assist, and officers helped detain the driver after a short foot chase. The crash left the car with significant damage and temporarily disrupted traffic while law enforcement processed the scene. Initial reports did not list any injuries to deputies or bystanders.
Jail Booking and What Comes Next
According to Action News Now, Zuniga was booked into the Butte County Jail, where she awaits further processing and potential arraignment. If felony charges move forward, prosecutors are expected to review evidence from the pursuit along with details of the outstanding warrant before deciding how to proceed. Officials have asked anyone with video or additional information about the chase to contact the sheriff’s office.
