At least one person is in custody after a fiery, spark-filled pursuit Wednesday night that lit up the freeways near Los Angeles International Airport and eventually ended with at least three or four other suspects fleeing the vehicle.
It’s unclear exactly what time the pursuit was initiated by officers with the South Gate Police Department, though officers handed it over to CHP just before 11 p.m.
The suspects were reportedly wanted for brandishing a firearm with preliminary and unconfirmed reports suggesting that inside the vehicle there were at least two handguns and a rifle.
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South Gate police officers in pursuit of a possibly armed suspect on Apr 9, 2025. (KTLA) -
South Gate police officers in pursuit of a possibly armed suspect on Apr 9, 2025. (KTLA) -
South Gate police officers in pursuit of a possibly armed suspect on Apr 9, 2025. (KTLA) -
South Gate police officers in pursuit of a possibly armed suspect on Apr 9, 2025. (KTLA) -
South Gate police officers in pursuit of a possibly armed suspect on Apr 9, 2025. (KTLA)
Sky5 was over the chase as the driver entered the LAX horseshoe and CHP unsuccessfully attempted a PIT maneuver, with the suspect vehicle countering by entering a parking garage where there were reports that they may have tossed the firearms out of the white SUV.
When the vehicle reappeared, its rear bumper was dragging, and sparks were seen flying from the right front tire, which eventually evaporated, leaving the SUV on three wheels and a rim.
In the area of Gorman Avenue and East 115th Street, the driver finally pulled over with suspects pouring out of the vehicle and fleeing on foot.
The suspect behind the wheel of the vehicle did not make it far before being surrounded by CHP officers with guns drawn. He surrendered and was taken into custody.
A law enforcement perimeter was being set up in the area to search for the remaining suspects when Sky5 was forced to leave the scene.