Handcuffed suspect steals CHP cruiser, crashes, flees

SOUTH LOS ANGELES, Calif. (KABC) -- A handcuffed suspect stole a California Highway Patrol cruiser, led troopers on a short pursuit and crashed before trying to run away in South Los Angeles, officials said.

ABC7 has learned the man, a possible drunk driving suspect, was handcuffed when he was able to get into the driver's seat of a CHP cruiser and take off near East 78th Street and South San Pedro at about 9 p.m.

A massive search was launched and the vehicle was found at Towne Avenue and East 74th Street, police stated. The suspect hit at least one other vehicle, according to authorities.

Officials said shortly after the cruiser was located, the suspect was spotted and taken into custody.

Police said the suspect could now face driving under the influence and grand theft auto charges.