Photo: scene of the crash
CARSON – Los Angeles School Police Department (LASPD) were frantically flagged-down early on the morning of April 8th, near Gardena Elementary School. City of Carson workers alerted the theft of their city utility dump truck at approximately 9AM.
The LASPD South Division Patrol Officer witnessed the 33,000-pound vehicle (ten times the weight of an average midsize sedan,) crash into multiple parked vehicles on Figueroa Street and 168th Street – then drive away recklessly. An attempt made to initiate a traffic stop was fruitless.
As the suspect continued to drive erratically, L.A. School Police Officials reported the immediate danger to the public and disregard of life. Fully-engaged in a vehicle pursuit, Officers followed in the wake of the massive vehicle’s continued destruction.
While heading non-stop through multiple traffic intersections, the suspect collided into other vehicles in its path.
A multi-agency assist occurred when Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) – Carson Station, Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), Inglewood Police Department and El Segundo Police Department joined in the nearly 20-minute pursuit.
Shortly thereafter, the out-of-control truck careened into trees near an El Segundo restaurant at Pacific Coast Highway and Grand Avenue. LASPD Officers reported that they approached the severely-damaged vehicle, and safely took the anonymous suspect into custody without further incident.
Amazingly, there was no loss of life. One injury took place, but no one was taken to hospital. “The suspect was medically cleared and booked at LASD Carson Sheriff’s Station for possession of a stolen vehicle, evading police and other charges to be filed,” said LASPD.
A subsequent three-hour crash-investigation closed southbound Pacific Coast Highway from Mariposa Avenue to Grand Avenue. “Thanks to the brave work of the LASPD and other police agencies, this vehicle pursuit was able to come to an end preventing the loss of innocent lives,” said Los Angeles School Police Association and Los Angeles School Police Management Association.
LASPD MISSION STATEMENT: We must remember that no matter what path one chooses, the mission is clear. To be strong…physically, mentally and emotionally so we are able to do the job effectively.
