Mesa, AZ – A late-night traffic stop in Apache Junction turned into a high-speed chase across city lines early December 7, leading to a crash and arrest in Mesa, according to the Pinal County Sheriff’s Office.
Around 1 a.m., deputies with the DUI Task Force stopped a vehicle for driving with only one headlight. During the stop, deputies detected the odor of burnt marijuana and spotted two open containers inside the car.
When the driver was asked to step out, he allegedly accelerated and fled. Authorities said the chase stretched into Mesa, with the vehicle reaching dangerous speeds before crashing. Deputies witnessed the wreck and reportedly saw the driver flee on foot into a nearby backyard.
With help from the Mesa Police Department’s helicopter and a drone, officers found the suspect hiding inside a pool box and took him into custody without further incident.
Deputies identified the driver as a 36-year-old man from Gold Canyon. He was arrested and charged with unlawful flight from law enforcement, aggravated DUI, reckless driving, excessive speed, and criminal damage. Authorities added he also had an active Arizona Department of Corrections parole violation warrant.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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