November 9, 2025 – Merced CHP officials report that Officer Thornton observed a Yamaha ATV traveling southbound on Winton Way near Bobbie Avenue. When he attempted to make an enforcement stop, the rider decided to take off instead. The short pursuit ended when the driver lost control along a canal bank and overturned.

Let’s give credit to our night shift for keeping Merced County safe.

Thankfully, the rider wasn’t seriously injured, but he wasn’t wearing a helmet and was later determined to be under the influence of alcohol. What could have been a simple traffic stop turned into a felony arrest for evading and DUI.

ATVs are not designed or permitted for public roadways. Driving them on the street is dangerous enough, but doing so while impaired can lead to devastating consequences.

Great work by Officer Thornton and all our officers working through the night to keep motorists safe.

Source & photos: Merced CHP