Suspect in Stolen Car Leads Police on Chase Through L.A. River

The driver surrendered after the vehicle became disabled in the riverbed

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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A driver suspected of stealing a car led deputies on a chase early Friday morning along the Los Angeles River channel before surrendering to authorities. The chase started around 2 a.m. along the 710 Freeway and Florence Avenue in Bell, when Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department deputies pursued the suspect. The vehicle became disabled along the riverbed, and the driver was apprehended and taken into custody.

Why it matters

Police pursuits through urban areas can pose a significant risk to public safety, and this incident highlights the challenges law enforcement faces in apprehending suspects of vehicle theft. The L.A. River channel is a unique environment that can complicate such chases.

The details

According to LASD Sgt. Miguel Meza, the chase started around 2 a.m. along the 710 Freeway and Florence Avenue in Bell, when deputies pursued a man suspected of stealing a car. The vehicle became disabled along the riverbed, either after hitting something or the driver being unable to find an escape route. The driver was then apprehended by authorities and taken into custody, though his identity was not immediately released.

  • The chase started around 2 a.m. on Friday, February 13, 2026.

The players

LASD Sgt. Miguel Meza

A sergeant with the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department who provided details about the pursuit and apprehension of the suspect.

The Suspect

An unidentified man who led deputies on a chase through the L.A. River channel after allegedly stealing a car.

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What’s next

Authorities are expected to release more information about the suspect, including his identity and any charges he may face, in the coming days.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the risks and challenges law enforcement faces in pursuing suspects through urban environments, particularly in unique settings like the L.A. River channel. It also highlights the ongoing problem of vehicle theft in the region and the need for continued efforts to address this issue.