Pursuit Leads To Long Standoff Between Reckless Driving Suspect And Police In Long Beach

LONG BEACH (CBSLA.com) —  A routine police pursuit led to a long standoff between authorities and the suspect Friday in Long Beach.

KCAL9's Peter Daut reports that it took hours for the area of North Long Beach to return to normal.

Several roads and businesses were closed during the confrontation.

With weapons drawn several officers surrounded the Mercedes near the intersection of Downey and Artesia after the more than two-hour standoff.

The suspect -- originally wanted for reckless driving --  refused to get out of the car. He often appeared  agitated and swayed in his seat.

"It's very unsettling," said witness Chuck Wilson.

He was at a nearby restaurant when he saw the commotion. He watched as the driver repeatedly ignored the officers' commands.

"If the police tell you what to do, you have to listen," said Wilson.

Officers  said as they drove up on the car, their intent was to have it towed.

At that point, they said the driver took off again. Ater a short pursuit, the unidentified driver hit an empty, parked car. The vehicle came to a stop in the middle of traffic.
The driver refused to leave the car. Later, a SWAT team was brought in to negotiate.

The suspect eventually surrendered peacefully -- much to the relief of people who say recent events involving police have put them on edge.

"It's just hostile, and it's boiling over and it's real time right now," said Raymeo Spears.

Police say the driver faces a number of charges, including reckless driving. He was treated at the scene for minor injuries.