Four teenagers, including a 13-year-old, were arrested early Wednesday morning following a high-speed chase that reached 98 mph through Puyallup streets.
The incident began around 2:30 a.m. when a Puyallup police officer spotted a stolen vehicle near the intersection of 112th Street South and Pacific Avenue South. The car had been taken from the Spanaway area and fled when the officer attempted a traffic stop.
The pursuit continued eastbound on 112th Street towards Portland Avenue, with the stolen vehicle reaching dangerous speeds through residential areas. Pierce County Sheriff’s Office deputies joined the chase and deployed stop sticks at Waller Road East and 112th Street East, successfully slowing the car.
The chase concluded on State Route 512 after officers executed a PIT manoeuvre. Four occupants, all wearing hoodies and face coverings, abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot but were apprehended after hiding in heavy brush along the highway.
All four suspects were confirmed to be minors. The driver was a 15-year-old boy without a valid driving licence, whilst the passengers included a 13-year-old boy, a 15-year-old girl, and a 17-year-old girl.
Pierce County Sheriff’s Office noted that stolen vehicles are frequently used to facilitate additional crimes, suggesting the arrests likely prevented further criminal activity throughout the night. The case highlights ongoing concerns about juvenile involvement in vehicle theft across the Puget Sound region.
The teenagers face charges related to vehicle theft and fleeing police. The incident underscores the risks associated with high-speed pursuits involving young suspects who may lack driving experience and decision-making skills to safely operate vehicles at such speeds.
