Police in California released video of a pursuit that culminated in a suspect clinging to a moving car in what appeared to be a carjacking attempt, which resulted in the suspect being shot. The incident occurred on January 27, when officers responded to a call reporting that a man named Juan Valdez, 40, was threatening a woman. Officers arrived at the scene to find two distressed females arguing with Valdez, who they referred to as “John.” One of the women cautioned the officers that Valdez might fight back.
The video footage released by the Lathrop Police Department shows officers engaging in a pursuit of Valdez in a gold Nissan Versa as he attempted to evade them. Valdez returned to the home where the initial altercation had taken place, and one of the alleged victims accused him of trying to kill her. Officers had their weapons drawn as they demanded that Valdez turn off the car, but he chose to flee instead. The pursuit continued through the neighborhood and eventually onto Interstate 5, where the suspect’s car experienced tire trouble.
During the chase, Valdez exited the vehicle and attempted to carjack another driver by grabbing onto the door as the driver attempted to keep moving. Police identified the carjacking attempt and warned Valdez to stop or face being shot. Despite the warning, Valdez continued his attempt to flee. An officer fired twice, striking Valdez and causing him to fall to the ground. He questioned why he had been shot before identifying himself to the officers who provided medical assistance until emergency services arrived.
Juan Valdez was transported to the hospital, where he was treated and then released before being booked into the San Joaquin County Jail. He faced multiple felony charges, including carjacking, false imprisonment, evasion, resisting arrest, and committing a felony while out on release or parole for a previous offense. Valdez was denied bail, and his next court appearance was scheduled for April 10. The incident captured on video by the police department showcased the dangerous nature of the pursuit and the lengths to which the suspect went to evade capture.
