Juvenile Arrested After Foot Chase and Recovery of Loaded Firearm in Watsonville
Watsonville police officers apprehended a 15-year-old suspect during a traffic stop that escalated into a foot chase and firearm recovery on Monday morning. The incident began near the intersection of Freedom Boulevard and Main Street when an officer observed a vehicle with multiple California Vehicle Code violations. Upon initiating a traffic stop, the passenger exited the vehicle and fled on foot.
The officer pursued the suspect to the 0-100 block of Kilburn Street, where a loaded 9mm handgun was recovered, discarded by the fleeing individual. The juvenile was subsequently taken into custody and booked into the Santa Cruz County Juvenile Hall. He faces charges of possessing a loaded firearm and obstructing an investigation.
The investigation remains ongoing as authorities work to determine additional details surrounding the case. Watsonville police emphasized their continued commitment to community safety and removing illegal firearms from the streets.
Photo: Watsonville PD
