Carjacking Suspect Leads Police On Wild 4-County Chase That Ends In Sacramento
SACRAMENTO (CBS13) — A carjacking suspect was arrested following a wild chase up and down Interstate 80 that went through four counties.
Velma Gallardo was filling up her car at a gas station at Watt Avenue and Auburn Boulevard when she says the suspect came up and attacked her.
"He approached and knocked me over and jumped in the car and said it was his and tried to take off. I fought him off as much as I could and screamed for help," she said.
She says the suspect then drove off, the gas cap still dangling from the side, but he didn't get far before being spotted by the California Highway Patrol.
"One of our North Sacramento officers observed the vehicle on Marconi, attempted to make an enforcement stop and the vehicle did not yield," said spokeswoman Julie Powell.
The chase started eastbound on Interstate 80 toward Roseville, then the suspect made a U-turn heading back westbound on I-80 through Sacramento and Davis. He then made another U-turn in Dixon back toward Sacramento, putting drivers in danger all along the way.
"Our goal is to make sure nobody is injured including officers and the public," Powell said.
With a flat tire, the suspect eventually spun out at Highway 50 and 65th Street where CHP officers took him into custody.
The CHP credits Velma's quick thinking with helping catch the suspected carjacker.
"You just have to react and be a good witness and get as much info like this person today, they were able to get a good description and call it in and we were able to observe the vehicle moments later," Powell said.