PIERCE COUNTY, Wash. — A 22-year-old man was arrested Saturday following a vehicle pursuit and crash on State Route 512, according to the Pierce County Sheriff's Department (PCSO).
The situation began at 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 fled northbound, prompting deputies to deploy a tracking device before terminating the pursuit due to traffic conditions.
Minutes later, the vehicle was located near South 84th Street and Yakima Avenue, where the suspect was seen attempting to remove the tracking device. Authorities said he then jumped back into the vehicle and fled again, turning onto Pacific Avenue South.
At approximately 5:29 p.m., the suspect's vehicle collided with another vehicle near South 110th Street and Pacific Avenue South. The suspect then fled on foot but was apprehended by deputies near SR 512 shortly after.
A firearm was visible inside the suspect's vehicle, which will be seized pending a search warrant. Investigators also indicated plans to assess the suspect for driving under the influence.
One of the vehicles involved in the crash caught fire, according to authorities. Four occupants from the other vehicle, including two children, were transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. A deputy also sustained an injury and was taken for medical treatment.
The Washington State Patrol (WSP) and other agencies are assisting with the investigation. Authorities have advised the public to avoid the area while the scene is being processed.