A driver accused of fleeing a hit-and-run crash is also suspected of DUI after he was caught trying to escape from officers in the Inland Empire, police said Thursday.
The incident occurred around 5 a.m. Wednesday as Upland police overheard a broadcast from the Rancho Cucamonga Police Department regarding a possible felony hit-and-run in the area of Vineyard Avenue and Arrow Route.
The suspect fled westbound on Arrow Route in a maroon-colored Honda Civic, the Upland Police Department posted on Facebook.
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Police catch a hit-and-run suspect on Dec. 18, 2024. (Upland Police Department) -
A DUI suspect is in custody after a hit-and-run crash on Dec. 18, 2024. (Upland Police Department) -
Police catch a hit-and-run suspect on Dec. 18, 2024. (Upland Police Department) -
Police catch a hit-and-run suspect on Dec. 18, 2024. (Upland Police Department)
An Upland police officer headed toward the city’s east side to watch for the vehicle and spotted it near Foothill Boulevard and Grove Avenue.
“Even if we weren’t looking for the vehicle, the driver drew some attention to himself since he was cruising with his rear axle damaged/grinding, a tire blown, and the vehicle smoking 🤦♂️,” police posted.
The driver tried to flee when police attempted to pull him over but “the Civic wasn’t having it” and came to a stop about a mile into the pursuit, police said.
Officers were quickly able to take the suspect into custody, allowing Rancho Cucamonga deputies to arrive and continue their investigation.
The driver was later arrested for driving under the influence of drugs, hit and run, evading and resisting, the post stated.
