Police Seek Suspect Following Chase, Crash

Last night, at approximately 5:55 pm, a South Gate Police officer was engaged in a vehicle pursuit of a reckless driver on the intersection of California Avenue and Southern Avenue.

“The driver ran some red lights,” said Sgt. Tim Williams of the South Gate Police Department (SGPD). “That is how the pursuit started.”

When the chase reached Long beach Boulevard and I-105 Freeway the SGPD was forced to cancel its pursuit out of a concern for public safety.

“Traffic was heavy and the suspect was driving really fast,” said Sgt. Williams. “It was cancelled in the best interest of everybody.”

The suspect would later on crash his vehicle on the 105-freeway and leave the car wreck at the scene. 

“The suspect ran from the vehicle prior to being impounded by the California Highway Patrol,” said Sgt. Williams, who described the car as a gold colored GMC Sierra pickup truck. 

After further investigation the SGPD found that the vehicle in question was involved in a hit and run accident on Otis Street and Firestone Boulevard seconds prior to the pursuit. The suspect driving has been described as Hispanic, with light complexion, short beard and a weight of about 170 pounds.  

The owner of the vehicle being driven has been identified and the SGPD are continuing their investigation. 

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