LA police chase LIVE today: Burglary suspect leads LAPD on high-speed chase on 101 Freeway, 405 Freeway through Southern California's San Fernando Valley

Officers with the Los Angeles Police Department engaged in a high-speed vehicle pursuit of a burglary suspect driving a black sedan through several San Fernando Valley communities on Friday morning, reaching speeds up to 100 mph.

The pursuit stretched across major freeway corridors and municipal streets, including the 101 Freeway and the 405 Freeway, passing through Encino, North Hills, and Mission Hills. Authorities maintained visual contact with the fleeing vehicle as it navigated complex freeway interchanges and busy urban intersections.

Incident Overview

According to reports from law enforcement officials, the pursuit was active shortly after 10:30 a.m. local time as the driver of a black sedan exited the 101 Freeway and transitioned onto local surface streets in the San Fernando Valley. At least four LAPD patrol cruisers maintained close pursuit as the suspect executed high-speed maneuvers, periodically accelerating up to 100 mph.

Shortly before 11:00 a.m., the driver entered the northbound lanes of the 405 Freeway in Encino, traveling through North Hills amid light traffic. The vehicle subsequently exited at Mission Hills, passed beneath the freeway structure, and reentered via an exit ramp. The driver then executed a U-turn directly on the freeway, reversing direction to travel southbound on the 405 Freeway before exiting again in North Hills. The sedan briefly stopped at a gas station located at Nordhoff Street and Aqueduct Avenue, but sped away when an LAPD patrol vehicle arrived.

Timeline of Events

1. Shortly after 10:30 a.m.: LAPD officers begin pursuing a black sedan linked to an alleged burglary as the driver exits the 101 Freeway onto surface streets.
2. Before 11:00 a.m.: The driver enters the northbound 405 Freeway in Encino, reaching speeds up to 100 mph while driving through North Hills.
3. Approx. 11:00 a.m.: The vehicle exits in Mission Hills, drives under the freeway, re-enters using an exit ramp, executes a U-turn on the freeway, and heads south on the 405.
4. Subsequent action: The suspect exits the 405 Freeway in North Hills and briefly halts at a gas station at Nordhoff Street and Aqueduct Avenue.
5. Pursuit continuation: An LAPD patrol unit pulls into the gas station, prompting the suspect to accelerate away and resume fleeing through local streets.

Suspect Information

Authorities have not publicly identified the driver operating the black sedan, and no details regarding age or residence were available. Police officials noted it was initially unclear whether any passengers were inside the vehicle during the pursuit.

Police Response

At least four LAPD patrol cruisers actively trailed the fleeing black sedan across multiple freeways and arterial surface streets. Responding units maintained tactical spacing to track the vehicle while monitoring public safety conditions across the San Fernando Valley.

Investigation

The Los Angeles Police Department is investigating both the high-speed pursuit and the underlying crime. Specific details regarding the location, target, or timing of the initial reported burglary were not immediately released by investigating officers.

Charges Filed

While formal charges depend on the outcome of the investigation and review by prosecutors, statutes under California law applicable to high-speed pursuit and burglary cases include:

• Burglary (California Penal Code Section 459): Encompasses entering a structure or locked vehicle with intent to commit theft or a felony. First-degree burglary involves residential structures and carries severe state prison terms, while second-degree burglary covers commercial properties and can be charged as a felony or misdemeanor.
• Reckless Evading a Peace Officer (California Vehicle Code Section 2800.2): Applies when a driver willfully flees a pursuing officer in wanton disregard for safety. Speeds exceeding 100 mph and dangerous freeway maneuvers satisfy the criteria for felony evading charges.
• Reckless Driving (California Vehicle Code Section 23103): Covers operating a vehicle on highways or public streets in willful disregard for safety, carrying penalties including fines, probation, or jail time.

Court Information

If formal charges are brought, proceedings will occur within the Los Angeles County Superior Court system, such as the San Fernando Courthouse. Under California Penal Code Section 825, an arrested individual must appear before a magistrate for arraignment within 48 hours of arrest, excluding weekends and holidays. Official court docket numbers are assigned upon filing of a criminal complaint by the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

Statements from Authorities

The Los Angeles Police Department provided preliminary details regarding the active pursuit on Friday morning. Department representatives indicated that further updates regarding the initial burglary investigation would be made available as details are confirmed.

Public Safety Information

Drivers encountering an active police pursuit should safely yield the right-of-way by signaling and moving to the right curb or shoulder before stopping completely. Never attempt to block or follow pursuing police vehicles. In emergencies or to report dangerous traffic conditions, citizens should dial 911 immediately.

What Happens Next

Following a suspect's apprehension, law enforcement officers finalize booking procedures and submit investigation reports to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. Prosecutors determine whether to file formal felony charges. If charged, the defendant attends an arraignment to enter a plea, followed by preliminary court hearings.

Source Attribution

This report is based on official statements and field reports from the Los Angeles Police Department as published by ABC7 New York (abc7ny.com).