Petaluma Man Arrested for Stealing Truck with Dog Inside

PETALUMA, Calif. – A Petaluma resident was apprehended on Friday after allegedly stealing a truck with the owner’s beloved canine companion inside, according to local law enforcement. The incident has left the community shocked and concerned about the safety of their vehicles and pets.

The Theft and Search Operation

At approximately 7:30 p.m. on Friday, a distressed man contacted the Petaluma Police Department to report the theft of his truck, which occurred in the vicinity of Weller and East D Street. What made the situation even more distressing was the fact that his loyal dog was inside the vehicle when it was taken, raising fears for the pet’s safety.

The victim provided a detailed description of the stolen truck to the police, who immediately initiated a search operation in the area. Despite their best efforts, the authorities initially failed to locate the stolen vehicle. In response, a “be on the lookout” alert was issued to neighboring law enforcement agencies to increase the chances of a successful recovery.

The Dramatic Pursuit

Approximately 35 minutes later, at around 8:05 p.m., a vigilant Santa Rosa police officer spotted the stolen truck traveling northbound on U.S. Highway 101 in Santa Rosa. Determined to bring the suspect to justice, the officer attempted to pull the vehicle over, but the driver, later identified as 50-year-old Petaluma transient Michael Carter Bailey, refused to comply and instead accelerated, initiating a high-speed chase.

The pursuit continued southbound on Highway 101, with multiple law enforcement vehicles in pursuit. The tension mounted as the suspect narrowly evaded capture on numerous occasions, weaving dangerously through traffic and endangering the lives of innocent motorists.

The Culmination and Arrest

In a daring move, a quick-thinking Petaluma officer deployed a “spike strip” in front of the fleeing vehicle, successfully puncturing its tires. With the truck disabled, the suspect was forced to come to a halt just south of the Old Redwood Highway overpass, bringing the heart-pounding chase to an end.

With the suspect’s apprehension, the focus immediately shifted to the safety and well-being of the dog still trapped inside the stolen truck. Thankfully, the pet was found unharmed and promptly reunited with its grateful owner, providing a glimmer of relief amidst the chaos.

Legal Consequences and Appeal for Witnesses

Michael Carter Bailey was taken into custody and subsequently booked into the Sonoma County Jail. He now faces charges of vehicle theft, felony probation violation, and evading a peace officer. The Petaluma Police Department urges anyone who witnessed the incident or has additional information to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Witnesses can contact the department at (707) 778-4372.