Placer Arson Suspect Runs into Helicopter Crew

Placer Sheriff Office's Helicopter, Falcon 30

The sheriff office’s helicopter crew received very special hands-on training in the American River Canyon yesterday as they witnessed their sergeant assist in the arrest of an arson suspect.

The sheriff’s office received a call that morning from a resident stating that she saw someone set fire in the area and then attempt to flee. A sheriff’s lieutenant responded instantly and ordered the suspect to stop, but the man did not respond and continued his escape.

What he did not know, though, was that the sheriff’s office helicopter crew was training in the area. They landed right in front of the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Luke Carter of Vacaville, and a sergeant attempted to apprehend Carter, which resulted in a fight between the two. The struggle gave the lieutenant just enough time to catch up and deploy his Taser. Carter gave in after that and was taken to a hospital for medical clearance before being transported to the Placer County Jail, where he is being held for arson and battery of a peace officer, with his bail set at $150,000, according to the Placer County Jail Register.

Thankfully, no structures were damaged in the fire which stretched to about one half-acre.

Read More:

Sacramento Bee: Sheriff’s helicopter crew helps apprehend Placer arson suspect

Rocklin and Roseville Today: Suspect Arrested on Arson and Battery Charges