CLEARLAKE — Gary Sturdevant, 24, of Clearlake was arrested Saturday following a vehicle and foot pursuit. Investigation continues with regard to Sturdevant”s possible involvement in a number of hit-and-run accidents that occurred in Clearlake.
According to Clearlake Police Sgt. M. Snyder, at about 6:53 p.m. Saturday, the department received information regarding several hit-and-run incidents within the City of Clearlake.
“Numerous citizens identified the suspect vehicle as a small silver Toyota truck,” he said. “During the investigation a citizen reported witnessing a vehicle matching the description of a small silver Toyota truck traveling on 18th Avenue. Several officers responded to the area.”
Snyder said officers identified a possible matching vehicle traveling east on 35th Avenue. He said officers witnessed the vehicle fail to stop or slow down for a posted stop sign.
According to Snyder, Officer M. Ray attempted to conduct a traffic enforcement and investigative stop on the vehicle. However, the vehicle allegedly continued in an attempt to evade officers, traveling approximately one block before striking a large tree.
“The driver, who was later identified as Gary Sturdevant, of Clearlake, fled from the small silver truck on foot,” Snyder said. “Officers chased Sturdevant to the rear of a residence where he was taken into custody.”
Sturdevant was booked into Lake County Hill Road Correctional Facility on charges of evading a peace officer and obstructing/resisting a peace officer.
Snyder said at this time the investigation into the numerous hit-and-run traffic collisions is ongoing and is expected to be submitted to the Lake County District Attorney”s Office.
