LOS ANGELES, CA – A driver suspected of stealing a truck was taken into custody Thursday after a high-speed pursuit that began in Bakersfield and ended when the vehicle’s front tire blew out on the freeway, authorities said.
According to the California Highway Patrol (CHP), officers initiated the pursuit after identifying the stolen truck in the Bakersfield area. The driver refused to pull over, leading officers on a chase along the southbound 5 Freeway toward the 134 Freeway.
As the pursuit continued, the truck’s right front tire blew out, causing visible smoke to rise from the vehicle. Despite the damage, the driver continued to travel for a period before finally coming to a stop in the Newhall area.
Once the truck was disabled, the suspect surrendered without further incident and was taken into custody by CHP officers. The individual’s identity has not been released, and authorities have not provided additional details regarding any potential charges.
No injuries were reported during the pursuit, and it remains unclear whether the suspect was armed or if there were any passengers in the vehicle. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities have not yet disclosed where the truck was stolen from or whether the owner has been contacted.
Traffic in the area was temporarily affected as officers secured the scene and conducted an initial investigation. Motorists were advised to use caution while traveling through the Newhall area following the incident.