Jesus “Jessie” Meza-Sanchez : “Stolen Semi-Tractor Pursuit Causes Freeway Shutdown”

By | June 11, 2024

– Semi-tractor theft Oregon
– Freeway shutdown Washington.

Accident – Death – Obituary News :

PORTLAND – A dramatic incident unfolded on Monday morning in Multnomah County, as sheriff’s deputies managed to arrest a man who had led them on a high-speed pursuit in a stolen semi-tractor. The chase resulted in the closure of Interstate 205 in both directions between Mill Plain Blvd. and State Route 500 for over an hour.

Details of the Incident

The sequence of events began around 9 a.m. when the owner of the stolen semi, a red 2022 International cab over owned by Knight Transportation, contacted 911 to report the tracking of the vehicle in Southeast Portland. The semi was later spotted in the area of NE Marine Drive and NE Interlachen Lane in Fairview.

Deputies located the stolen semi at Blue Lake Park around 9:45 a.m. When they tried to box-in the vehicle, the driver aggressively rammed a patrol car, causing one deputy to sustain injuries. Ignoring law enforcement’s attempts to stop him, the driver then proceeded to flee the scene, prompting deputies to initiate a pursuit.

During the chase, deputies strategically deployed spike strips at various locations to deflate the semi’s tires, eventually causing the driver to lose control. Despite driving on rims and with several tires disintegrating, the driver continued his reckless journey, reaching speeds of 50 to 65 miles per hour on I-205.

After a tense standoff near NE Burton Road, the driver and his passenger finally surrendered to authorities at around 11:30 a.m. The closure of I-205 in both directions between Mill Plain Blvd. and State Route 500 was necessary to ensure public safety during the apprehension.

Legal Consequences

The driver, identified as 39-year-old Jesus “Jessie” Meza-Sanchez of Portland, now faces a slew of charges including assault, eluding law enforcement, criminal mischief, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and possession of a stolen vehicle. Meza-Sanchez is currently held at the Clark County Jail and will be extradited to Multnomah County for further legal proceedings. The female passenger, who was not implicated in any criminal activity, was released.

Aftermath

Fortunately, apart from the deputy’s minor injuries sustained during the collision, there were no other reported injuries or damages to vehicles on the road. I-205 was fully reopened by noon on Monday, allowing traffic to resume its normal flow.

Overall, the successful apprehension of the suspects showcases the dedication and swift response of law enforcement in Multnomah County in ensuring public safety and upholding the law.

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stolen semi-tractor
Washington/Oregon freeway.

   

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