Palmdale carjacking chase suspect slams into deputies' cruisers, spins tires

PALMDALE, Calif. (KABC) -- A carjacking chase came to a wild end in Palmdale, where the suspect slammed into deputies' cruisers and spun his tires trying to get away.

The chase started shortly after the carjacking victim dialed 911 to report his car had been stolen around 11:30 p.m. Tuesday in front of his friend's apartment complex near 17th Street East and Palmdale Boulevard.

The victim was at the front gate waiting to get in. When he looked up, he saw the suspect hop a wall and run toward him pointing a gun. He said the suspect put the gun to his cheek and ordered him out of his vehicle if he didn't want to get shot.

The victim, who wanted to remain anonymous, said the suspect got into his car and sped off to the back of the apartment complex and rammed a gate to get out.

The victim also said he was filling out an incident report with deputies when the suspect drove by them and fired shots at them. Deputies could not confirm the shooting.

Sheriff's deputies pursued the suspect, but the chase ended just a few blocks away near 20th Street East and Palmdale Boulevard. That's where the suspect hopped a curb and narrowly missed a light pole.

The suspect tried to back up, but his car became stuck on the curb and deputies were able to box him in with their cruisers. This didn't stop the suspect, who slammed his car back and forth into deputies' cars.

The suspect still didn't give up, spinning his tires and sending up large plumes of smoke in a futile attempt to get away.

Deputies, with guns drawn, ordered the suspect to exit the car. At some point during the brief standoff, shots can heard - but it's not clear who fired them.

The suspect eventually surrendered and was taken into custody. Sheriff's officials are investigating if the suspect fired shots during the pursuit.