2 Juveniles Arrested After 100-MPH Pursuit In Stolen Vehicle In San Diego County

SAN DIEGO, CA — Two juveniles from the Los Angeles area were arrested early Sunday after authorities said they led law enforcement on a high-speed pursuit in a stolen vehicle through San Diego's East County.

The pursuit began around 1 a.m. when the San Diego County Sheriff's ASTREA helicopter received a license plate reader alert for a vehicle reported stolen in the Redondo Beach area traveling east on Interstate 8, according to the Sheriff's Office.

Deputies attempted to stop the vehicle near Willows Road, but the driver accelerated to speeds exceeding 100 mph and fled. The vehicle exited and re-entered I-8 as deputies and the ASTREA helicopter tracked it from the air.

California Highway Patrol officers deployed tire deflation devices near the Mollison Avenue exit as the vehicle left the freeway. The driver and passenger abandoned the moving vehicle and fled on foot. Officers arrested the driver, and the passenger was taken into custody a short time later with assistance from the ASTREA crew.

Both suspects were identified as juveniles from the Los Angeles area. They were arrested on suspicion of evading a peace officer with disregard for public safety, vehicle theft and possession of a stolen vehicle.

The stolen vehicle was recovered and its owner was notified. No injuries were reported.