SANTA MONICA (CBSLA.com) — Police Thursday chased a theft suspect around Santa Monica.

During the wild chase around Santa Monica surface streets, the driver pulled over and his passenger foot-bailed.

It is unclear if police have the suspect who foot-bailed in custody.

After the foot-bail, the driver backed up and sped off again.

The driver was erratic and nearly side-swiped several cars during the pursuit.

The motorist was followed by at least three cars and a police chopper overhead.

According to Santa Monica police, the chase started as a call regarding a possible theft suspect at a Vons in the 1300 block of Wilshire.

Two people were detained at the scene of the alleged theft and police said they recovered a handgun.

The chase occurred mostly on surface streets with the suspect driving around in circles.

The chase culminated with the suspect pulling over and being arrested.

He got out of the vehicle with his hands up, smoking a cigarette.