Attempted car theft suspect sprays deodorant in victim's eyes in Lake Elsinore, deputies say

LAKE ELSINORE, Calif. (KABC) -- A man suspected of trying to steal a car sprayed deodorant in a victim's eyes in Lake Elsinore, according to authorities.

The Riverside County Sheriff's Department said 43-year-old James Paz of Mira Loma attempted to steal a car near Central and Dexter avenues at about 2 p.m. on Friday.

Deputies said a man confronted Paz as he was trying to steal a family member's car.

After being confronted, authorities said Paz sprayed aerosol deodorant in the man's eyes and ran from the scene.

Deputies searched the area and said they located Paz attempting to break into another vehicle.

The sheriff's department said Paz was found to be in possession of a stolen vehicle, burglary tools and the aerosol deodorant used to assault the victim.

Paz was booked for multiple felonies related to automobile theft, burglary, possession of stolen property, as well as assault.

Anyone with information that could aid detectives in their investigation was urged to call Riverside County Sheriff's dispatch at (951) 776-1099.