Yuma County law enforcement agencies were sent on an on-and-off again vehicle chase, last Friday, July 5, finally apprehending the suspect in Wray.
It began around 11:16 a.m. when the Yuma Police Department was alerted to a driver who had driven away from a traffic contact at Yuma County Road Z and Highway 34, traveling westbound toward Yuma, with Yuma County Sheriff’s Office deputies also en route.
The vehicle was a black Dodge Durango. The driver later was identified as Jelitza Reynoso.
YPD officers were asked to assist with stop sticks and moved east to intercept. After setting up, the officers were advised the violator had turned south on County Road N. The YPD and YCSO moved towards an intersection in the county with a dead end. They attempted to set up stop sticks again. The violator vehicle then drove at the law enforcement vehicles, and began driving toward Yuma.
The YPD and YCSO discontinued their efforts due to safety concerns. However, the vehicle continued at a high rate of speed when it entered the Yuma city limits, traveling through a red light and continuing through the town. It then turned onto Main St. and drove at a high rate of speed through the commercial district.
Yuma police re-engaged in a pursuit due to the reckless nature of the driver. While driving through Yuma, the driver almost struck several vehicles and pedestrians, while driving into oncoming traffic, and on the shoulder.
The vehicle was followed to approximately County Road Y. The pursuit was discontinued again due to an increase in traffic, as well as a bicycle event moving through Yuma County on Highway 34.
The Wray Police Department was able to intercept the vehicle again as it entered Wray city limits. Officers pursued the vehicle until it parked at an address in Wray, and the suspect was taken into custody. The suspect was transported to the hospital for medical clearance.
YPD, YCSO, and WPD are seeking assistance from drivers or pedestrians who witnessed the incident that occurred around 11:16 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., to fill out a voluntary witness statement, or call 970-848-5441 or 970-332-4802, and an officer or deputy can meet with a witness form. Your help is appreciated.
Yuma Police Department would like to thank the YCSO, WPD and Colorado State Patrol for their assistance as well in this matter.