CLEARLAKE ? According to a press release from the Clearlake Police Department, a man was hit by an SUV, while chasing an alleged shoplifter on Tuesday.
According to Clearlake Police Sgt. T. Celli, at 2:33 p.m. Clearlake Police were dispatched to Highway 53 near the intersection of Dam Road for a traffic collision involving a vehicle and a pedestrian.
As a result of the investigation, it was discovered that Christopher Sorenson Jr., 20, of Lucerne, was struck by a vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 53. The vehicle was reportedly traveling at 40 mph.
It is believed that Sorenson exited an uninvolved vehicle near the intersection after he observed an employee of Ray”s Food Place chasing an alleged shoplifter. Sorenson apparently decided to join the foot chase as employees were chasing the suspect. As Sorenson crossed the highway, he was struck by a Nissan SUV driven by Shanti Gallon, 37, of Clearlake.
The southbound lanes of Highway 53 near the intersection were closed for approximately an hour. Sorenson was transported to St. Helena, Clearlake Hospital, where he was treated for injuries. He was in stable condition as of press time. The alleged shoplifter was not captured nor identified. Anybody with information should contact Clearlake Police Department at 994-8251.
