Chase Suspect Drives Onto Joe Rodota Trail, Hides In Creek: SCSO

SONOMA COUNTY, CA — A 43-year-old Santa Rosa man was reportedly found hiding in a creek Thursday after leading deputies on a brief chase in southwest Santa Rosa, a spokesman for the Sonoma County Office said. Kirk Williams is accused in the pursuit that started early Thursday morning in the 300 block of Sebastopol Road when a deputy spotted a gray Pontiac Vibe that had been reported stolen Feb. 5, sheriff's Sgt. Juan Valencia said.

"The deputy saw a male sitting in the passenger seat when Williams jumped into the driver's seat and began driving eastbound on Sebastopol Road," Valencia said.

The deputy followed Williams and turned on the lights on his patrol car when Williams reportedly drove northbound on Roberts Avenue toward the entrance to Joe Rodota Trail. It is alleged that instead of stopping the car, Williams drove up onto the trail.

Williams is accusing of driving to the north end of the trail, where it meets the Santa Rosa Creek, before he stopped the car and climbed out, according to Valencia.

"Williams jumped a fence and began running northbound on the railroad tracks towards 3rd Street," Valencia said.

More deputies, along with Santa Rosa police officers, soon arrived and a perimeter was set up to look for Williams.

Within a few minutes, authorities found Williams hiding in the creek, Valencia said.

"While this pursuit was short, it was necessary to stop and arrest a person who has shown his intention to endanger the public," Valencia said. "We thank those who were in the area of this pursuit for your cooperation and safe driving as peace officers worked to resolve this problem."

According to the sheriff's office, Williams being held in lieu of $35,000 at Sonoma County jail on suspicion of misdemeanor failure to yield, felony possession of a stolen vehicle, vehicle theft and a misdemeanor arrest warrant for DUI and resisting arrest.

A passenger who was in the car with Williams during the chase was released from the scene.