Auto Theft Arrest in Alpine 

August 3, 2026 – San Diego County Sheriff's Office officials report that on August 2, 2026, at about 1:00 a.m., the San Diego Sheriff's ASTREA helicopter received a license plate reader (LPR) alert for a stolen vehicle traveling eastbound on Interstate 8 from the City of El Cajon. The vehicle was confirmed stolen from the Redondo Beach area.

ASTREA located the vehicle and directed Alpine deputies, who positioned themselves behind the suspect vehicle near Willows Road and attempted a traffic stop. The driver failed to yield and accelerated to high speeds (exceeding 100 mph), initiating a vehicle pursuit. The vehicle exited the freeway, then re-entered and headed westbound on Interstate 8, with ASTREA maintaining continuous aerial tracking throughout the pursuit. Alpine and Lakeside Deputies worked together coordinating the pursuit of the vehicle. 

California Highway Patrol Officers successfully deployed tire deflation devices prior to the Mollison Avenue exit as the driver exited the freeway. Both the driver and passenger abandoned the moving vehicle and ran from the scene. California Highway Patrol Officers apprehended the driver, and the passenger was taken into custody shortly thereafter with the direct assistance and guidance of ASTREA.

Both subjects were determined to be juveniles from the Los Angeles area and were placed under arrest for Evading a Peace Officer with Disregard for Public Safety, Auto Theft, and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle. The stolen vehicle was recovered from the scene, and the registered owner was notified. No injuries resulted from the incident.

The LPR camera system continues to be a valuable tool in enhancing public safety and supporting law enforcement efforts to identify, locate, and apprehend dangerous criminal offenders. This case highlights the critical role the system played in apprehending suspects who posed a threat to the community.

Source: San Diego County Sheriff's Office