A man suspected of drug dealing was arrested after a police chase spanning multiple highways and residential areas on the night of Jan. 7.
The pursuit began after 9 p.m. when a Thurston County Sheriff’s Office (TCSO) deputy attempted to stop a beige Toyota Corolla with an obstructed license plate near Old Pacific Highway SE and Reservation Road SE.
The driver, later identified as Francisco Santiago-Araujo, initially slowed down but then fled, which led the deputy to chase after him.
Other deputies responded to the call for assistance and went after the suspect vehicle, which was reported to drive at high speed through Highway 510, then passing through Rockcress Drive SE, Steilacoom Drive SE and Martin Way SE, until he reached Interstate 5 northbound.
“The subject continued (on I-5) northbound at speeds ranging from 80‐100 mph, swerving around vehicles, driving on the shoulder, narrowly avoiding numerous collisions," TCSO reported.
"The subject displayed wilful and wanton disregard for the safety of themselves, their passenger, or other motorists."
The chase ended in Puyallup after the vehicle struck a telephone pole and landed in a ditch.
Both Santiago-Araujo and a pregnant female passenger exited the vehicle without resistance and were detained.
A search of the car, conducted after obtaining a warrant, revealed four small bags of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, electronic scales and packaging materials consistent with drug distribution.
The 31-year old suspect was booked into the Thurston County Jail on charges of unlawful possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, attempt to elude police vehicle, reckless endangerment and third-degree driving while license is suspended.
The pregnant passenger was not charged and was released from the scene.
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Bigjules
Thank you for stopping them before distributing drugs to vulnerable populations.
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