Teen survives high-speed chase Othello vehicle theft
OTHELLO – A 14-year-old boy was involved in a high-speed pursuit Sunday, following the theft of a vehicle in Othello, according to a statement from the Othello Police Department.
At approximately 1:49 a.m., Othello police officers noticed a black 2003 Chevrolet Trailblazer speeding through a 35-mph zone, prompting a traffic stop due to suspected impaired driving. Officers attempted a traffic stop in the 100 block of North Seventh Avenue.
However, the driver accelerated away from the officers, reaching speeds over 70 mph while navigating city streets, running multiple stop signs and red lights and heading towards State Route 26.
“Don’t risk your future, it’s simply not worth it, fleeing creates danger for everyone,” Othello PD said in a statement.
The perilous chase concluded when the Trailblazer, still traveling at around 70 mph, crashed into cement barricades at the end of the road, flipping at least once before settling.
Quick action by Othello EMS and fire services led to the teen being transported to a local hospital, where he was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.
Further investigation revealed that the boy, a resident of North Las Vegas, Nev., had stolen the vehicle just minutes before the pursuit while accompanying his father on a work trip.
He is now held at Martin Hall Juvenile Facility, facing charges including theft of a motor vehicle, possession of a stolen vehicle and attempting to elude police officers.
“Although not the ending we wanted, we are thankful the teen made it out alive,” Othello PD said in a statement.