Most DUI arrests begin in one of two ways: either there is an accident, or the police pull a driver over under “suspicion” of DUI. However, the police look for certain signs of intoxication, and there are certain rules they must follow before they can pull a driver over. The cues that police officers look for when patrolling are set forth by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. There are twenty-four cues, which are divided into four broad categories. The first category involves actions that indicate a problem maintaining proper lane position. The second category involves speeding and braking problems. A third category is called “vigilance problems” and includes driving the wrong way. The fourth category is judgment problems and includes driving off of the roadway.
KTLA reports that a suspected DUI driver allegedly fired at deputies and led police on a chase before being apprehended.
The incident began at about 9:00 P.M. on Thursday in Antelope Valley when police officers attempted to pull over a suspected DUI driver. The vehicle fled on the 14 Freeway and according to reports, occupants began firing on officers early in the chase.
During the pursuit, which took place mostly on the 14 Freeway, additional shots were fired at both deputies and the sheriff’s helicopter.
The driver eventually merged onto the 5 Freeway southbound in Santa Clarita. Footage from a helicopter showed that the hood had popped up on the vehicle, blocking the driver’s view.
As the driver was attempting to make another merge onto the eastbound 210 Freeway in Sylmar, deputies deployed spike strips to disable the vehicle. The driver exited the vehicle and continued firing on officers.
Officers returned fire, striking the suspect in the leg. Attempting to cross the 5 Freeway, the driver was clipped by another motorist, where authorities were able to take him into custody.
The passenger stayed in the vehicle and was apprehended by police. Investigators believe that the passenger also fired shots during the chase.
