OAKHURST — The local California Highway Patrol is seeking the public’s help in identifying a suspect who allegedly stole a vehicle in Oakhurst, leading authorities on a chase and ultimately eluding arrest.
On Monday, Nov. 24, just after 7 p.m., CHP officers were advised of vehicle stolen from Yosemite Southgate Hotel. The vehicle was described as a 1994 white Jeep Cherokee.
A CHP officer in the area of Highway 41 and Van Teri Road spotted the Jeep traveling southbound on Highway 41 at a high rate of speed. The officer initiated an enforcement stop and a pursuit ensued along Road 417 into the area of Hopi Ave.
According to CHP reports, the Jeep braked suddenly and a white adult male exited through the driver’s door. He was reportedly wearing a dark-colored, long-sleeve shirt and white pants. The subject ran in a northeasterly direction, disappearing into the darkness behind a vacant house. Meanwhile, the Jeep continued to roll forward, colliding with a tree and coming to a complete stop.
The subject was not found and the investigation is ongoing. The Oakhurst CHP asks for the public’s help in identifying this individual. If you have any information pertaining to this incident please contact the local CHP Area Office at (559) 658-6590.
Authorities remind the public to avoid leaving any vehicle unattended with the engine running. Community members are urged to avoid storing valuables in their vehicles, and to keep all vehicles secured and locked.
