Stolen car suspect drives through L.A. River channel, leading authorities on a pursuit - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Summer Lin

February 13, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

A suspected stolen vehicle driver led Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department deputies on a high-speed chase Friday morning along the Los Angeles River channel before ultimately surrendering to authorities. The pursuit began around 2 a.m. near Bell, where deputies spotted the man driving a stolen car and initiated the chase. The suspect attempted to evade capture by navigating through the riverbed alongside the 710 Freeway. After driving north towards Florence Avenue, he turned around and headed south, eventually losing control of the vehicle or finding no viable escape route, causing it to become disabled in the riverbed. Authorities apprehended the driver shortly after, taking him into custody without further incident. The pursuit, which lasted approximately an hour, drew significant attention from both law enforcement and onlookers as the suspect drove through a challenging terrain. Sgt. Miguel Meza of the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department provided updates on the situation, confirming that the driver was taken into custody but did not disclose any additional details about his identity or the circumstances leading to the theft. The incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in pursuing suspects who attempt to flee through unconventional routes. This incident underscores the importance of public safety and the risks involved in such pursuits. While authorities were able to apprehend the suspect, the chase demonstrated the lengths individuals will go to avoid capture. The Los Angeles River channel, often used as a hiding spot for fugitives, proved to be a difficult yet temporary escape route in this case. As law enforcement continues to monitor and respond to such incidents, the focus remains on ensuring public safety and apprehending suspects effectively.

Verticals

newscalifornia

Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/13/2026