Teenage Driver Leads CHP on Menifee Freeway Chase

A teenage motorist from Hemet led California Highway Patrol officers on a high-speed chase through Menifee today before crashing a stolen vehicle on Highway 74 in the Romoland community, according to a CHP news release.

A CHP officer first spotted the 16-year-old male, whose name was not released, traveling northbound on Interstate 215 in a Honda Accord about 9 a.m. and preparing to exit at Scott Road. Suddenly, the vehicle accelerated and crossed back into northbound traffic at about 85 mph. The Honda cut off a truck in the No. 2 lane and slowed to 40 mph, the CHP said. As the officer signaled for the Honda Accord to pull over, the vehicle slowed to the right shoulder, but suddenly sped away again, reaching speeds of approximately 115 mph.

The vehicle exited at Highway 74 and continued eastbound. It was traveling about 90 mph when it entered a long sweeping curve, spun and swerved across the westbound lanes, nearly striking another vehicle. The Honda Accord finally struck a block wall and came to rest facing the wrong way in the No. 2 lane near Trade Winds Drive.

The passenger, a male juvenile from Homeland, was transported to Inland Valley Medical Center for moderate injuries. The driver was arrested and taken to the same hospital for medical clearance, then was released to his aunt. Charges will be submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney's office, according to the CHP.

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