After a long shift that already included hauling an arrestee to jail, a weary O.C. Sheriff’s deputy figured the only thing left before checking out of the station was a quick stop for gas. But just as they were about to refuel, the afternoon threw a wrench in their plans, according to the Sheriff’s Lake Forest Police Services Division.
Pulling up to the gas pumps at Lake Forest Dr. and Dimension, the deputy’s eyes locked onto a vehicle idling nearby—it was stolen, of course. Before the suspects could even begin to process their unleaded dose of bad luck, the vehicle’s doors flew open. Three occupants scrambled out, and one took off running.
Realizing this pit stop was about to turn into a high-octane pursuit, the deputy called for backup. Within moments, multiple deputies swarmed the area, chasing the fleeing suspect up a hillside near Canada Rd. Just when they thought they had the situation topped off, another twist—there was actually a fourth suspect trying to sneak away unnoticed.
A search of the vehicle turned up more than just an empty gas tank—deputies found multiple drugs, paraphernalia, and even illegal fireworks inside.
In total, two males and one female were arrested for possession of a stolen vehicle, outstanding warrants, parole holds, and narcotics charges. Another male was cited and released.
