Merced, CA (January 26, 2026) — A reported vehicle theft led to a police pursuit and arrest in Merced on Sunday afternoon after the victim actively followed their stolen car and contacted authorities.
According to law enforcement, officers received a call from a victim who reported their vehicle had been stolen earlier that morning from a church. The victim later located the vehicle and contacted police while following it.
Sergeant Lara located the suspect vehicle near Santa Fe Road and Olive Avenue. When officers attempted an enforcement stop, the driver fled, prompting a pursuit through multiple areas of the City of Merced. Officers Garza and Enriquez assisted as the pursuit continued.
The chase ended when the suspect vehicle collided with a tree near 16th Street and T Street. Authorities confirmed that no injuries were reported as a result of the collision, and the suspect was taken into custody at the scene.
Law enforcement officials emphasized that vehicle pursuits are inherently dangerous and unpredictable, posing significant risks to suspects, officers, and the public—particularly on busy city streets with traffic, pedestrians, and intersections.
Authorities are urging the public not to attempt to recover stolen vehicles on their own. If a vehicle is stolen, individuals are advised to move to a safe location, call 911, and provide detailed information such as the vehicle description, license plate number, direction of travel, and last known location.
“Your safety is worth more than property,” officials stated, reminding residents to allow law enforcement to handle these situations.
