Speeding driver stopped, then leads multiple agencies on chase and search

A driver speeding at 95 mph was stopped by a California Highway Patrol officer about 3 p.m. Saturday on northbound Highway 101 near Tefft Street in Nipomo, but didn’t stick around long.

San Luis Obispo CHP Sgt. Charlie Wilson said the driver provided his ID information and when the officer turned to go back to the patrol vehicle, the man fled, jumping fences into the backyards of homes along the freeway.

The man ran and hid in the area around South Oakglen Avenue and Bermuda Place near the Christmas tree farm.

A perimeter was established on those streets and the CHP requested assistance from the San Luis Obispo Sheriff’s Department, Santa Maria CHP and a California State Parks K9 officer. Additionally, the CHP helicopter “H-70” also assisted.

“After searching for about 15-20 minutes, a bystander told the officers that they saw a man running across the freeway toward the west side,” Sgt. Wilson said. “Once the driver was outside of the perimeter, it became difficult to find him.”

The search was suspended about 4 p.m. Officers impounded the driver’s vehicle, Wilson said, and they know who he is.

“We will be filing a complaint on the driver for the traffic violations, and resisting, delaying or obstructing an officer.”

This story was originally published March 28, 2020 at 7:08 PM.