PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — A 22-year-old man was arrested Saturday after a multi-part chase involving a vehicle crash and foot pursuit, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Department (PCSO).
The incident commenced at approximately 5:22 p.m. when a deputy attempted to stop a vehicle near the Alta Apartments on Steel Street South in Tacoma. The driver failed to yield and accelerated northbound.
As traffic conditions forced the vehicle to decelerate, deputies deployed a tracking device before ending the pursuit.
Minutes later, deputies found the vehicle stopped at South 84th Street and Yakima Avenue. Authorities reported the suspect was attempting to remove the tracking device when spotted by deputies.
The suspect allegedly re-entered the vehicle, fleeing a second time northbound and then turning onto Pacific Avenue South.
A pursuit ensued until a collision occurred at approximately 5:29 p.m. near South 110th Street and Pacific Avenue South, involving another vehicle, according to authorities.
Following the crash, the suspect exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Deputies apprehended him near State Route 512 after a brief chase.
A firearm was observed inside the suspect's vehicle, which will be seized pending a search warrant. Investigators also plan to assess the suspect for driving under the influence.
One vehicle in the collision caught fire, and four occupants of the other vehicle were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries, including two children. One deputy sustained an injury and was also taken to a hospital.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) is assisting with the ongoing investigation. Authorities are advising the public to avoid the area during scene processing.