In the early hours of March 12, 2024, the Alliance Police Department swiftly responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, a 2013 GMC Acadia, white in color, seen heading southbound on Box Butte Avenue from 25th Street. The department was alerted at 1:14 a.m. and Officer Gomez swiftly responded to the call and located the stolen vehicle in the vicinity at around 1:16 a.m., initiating a traffic stop.
Despite Officer Gomez’s attempt to pull over the vehicle, the suspect failed to comply, prompting a pursuit that commenced near the Lakefield Apartments which traversed through town until reaching 7th and Black Hills. Recognizing the need for additional support, a call for assistance was issued to the Nebraska State Patrol and the Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office during the pursuit.
Off-duty NSP Trooper Garfio responded to the call for assistance, reinforcing efforts to apprehend the suspect. The juvenile suspect, whose identity is withheld, abandoned the stolen vehicle near the alleyway of 7th and Black Hills, fleeing on foot. Trooper Garfio and Officer Gomez, with exceptional coordination, pursued the suspect, successfully bringing him into custody without further incident. The pursuit ended at 1:28 a.m. and the suspect was placed into custody at 1:29 a.m.
“The swift response and collaborative efforts of our officer, alongside the invaluable support from our law enforcement partners, led to the safe apprehension of the suspect without harm to the public or officers involved,” stated Lieutenant Kirk Felker, acknowledging the commendable efforts of Officer Gomez and the assisting agencies.
The vehicle was towed to Red Beard Garage due to damage sustained during the pursuit. The vehicle had sustained damage to the front bumper, front undercarriage, and a damaged right front wheel that was on the rim. It is unknown when exactly the damages to the vehicle occurred during the pursuit.
The Alliance Police Department extends its sincere gratitude to the Nebraska State Patrol and Box Butte County Sheriff’s Office for their invaluable assistance during this operation, exemplifying the spirit of collaboration and mutual support in ensuring the safety and security of our community.
(Photos Courtesy of the Alliance Police Department)