Recently, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) made headlines with several notable incidents, including a CHP helicopter and allied agencies rescuing two victims stranded on a beach, a wrong-way driver grinding CHP’s gears, one of the newest CHP K-9s assisting with apprehending a shooting suspect in Los Angeles, participation in the 31st annual Shop With a Cop event, and officers rescuing two dogs running on the freeway.
Beach Rescue
On December 11, the Coastal Division Air Operations Helicopter-70 (H-70), the San Luis Obispo Fire Department and the San Luis Obispo County Urban Search & Rescue rescued two victims stuck on the beach during high tide. They were not injured but trapped by the crashing waves surrounding the tiny beach. Firefighters responded and set up a hoist from the roadway above to lift one of them while H-70 lifted the other. Both victims were safely lifted off the beach in about an hour.
Wrong-Way Driver
CHP Officers in South Los Angeles swiftly intervened in an escalating situation on the highway on Dec. 8, involving a wrong-way driver, which presented a significant public safety risk. Due to the officers’ rapid response and meticulous coordination, they safely deployed a spike strip and efficiently brought the vehicle to a controlled halt. The driver was taken into custody and sustained no injuries.
K-9 Assistance
During the late hours of December 11, CHP East Los Angeles officers assisted the Los Angeles Police Department in the apprehension of a suspected shooting suspect who led multiple allied agencies on a dangerous pursuit. After fleeing on foot and barricading themselves, the suspect was ultimately arrested thanks to the work of Gambit, a CHP K-9 officer. Gambit specializes in patrol and narcotics detection and is one of six K-9s who graduated from the CHP K-9 Academy in November.
Holiday Shopping
On December 7, the Border Division was privileged to participate in the ‘Shop with a Cop’ event. The day kicked off with breakfast at SeaWorld, where the kids enjoyed a delicious meal and even had the chance to watch an incredible dolphin show. The day continued with a visit to a local retailer, where the children chose gifts for themselves and their loved ones. Gratitude to all who contributed towards facilitating this unique day, including the exceptional children and families taking part.
Freeway Operation
Officer Martinez and Officer Flores from the CHP Altadena Area office responded to a call of dogs running in lanes northbound I-5, south of Terra Bella Street. Once the officers arrived in the area, they were able to rescue both puppies from danger. The puppies were immediately transported to the Van Nuys Animal Shelter with hopes they can be reunited with their families.
