Two Arrested in Connection with Carjacking, High-Speed Pursuit in San Joaquin County
San Joaquin County deputies arrested two individuals in connection with a carjacking and high-speed pursuit in Stockton.
According to a press release by the Sheriff’s Office, patrol deputies on the night of Sunday, July 21, identified a vehicle associated with a carjacking that had occurred earlier that day in the area of Harding and Wilson Way.
Deputies attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle failed to yield, leading to a high-speed pursuit.
During the chase, the vehicle turned off its lights and ran multiple stop signs, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
The pursuit reportedly concluded when the suspect vehicle collided with a civilian vehicle at the intersection of School Street and Harding Way. Following the collision, five individuals fled the suspect vehicle on foot.
Additional deputies arrived on the scene to assist in the search for the suspects.
During the search, deputies reportedly apprehended James Cortez, 18, and Valentino Negrete, 18.
Deputies also searched the suspect vehicle and seized an AR-Style rifle and a handgun. Deputies allegedly found another handgun located just outside the vehicle.
The occupants of the civilian vehicle that was hit were transported to a local hospital but did not sustain major injuries.
The incident involved multiple serious offenses, including carjacking, reckless driving, and possession of firearms, according to the Sheriff’s Office.
Cortez and Negrete were subsequently booked into the San Joaquin County jail on suspicion of carrying a loaded or concealed weapon, obstructing or resisting an officer, and being prohibited persons in possession of ammunition.
