Oklahoma City police reported a dramatic arrest on the evening of October 26, when a suspect who had taken a pizza delivery driver’s unlocked car attempted to evade law enforcement by abandoning the vehicle and leaping into the Oklahoma River.
Vehicle theft and pursuit
Shortly before 6 p.m., officers responded to a report that a delivery driver’s car had been taken from a curb on Southwest 23rd Street. The driver, who had left the vehicle unlocked, discovered it missing and alerted the Oklahoma City Police Department. A patrol unit soon located the stolen car near the intersection of Southwest 29th Street and Interstate 44.
When officers tried to initiate a traffic stop, the driver of the stolen vehicle refused to pull over. He continued eastward, eventually reaching Southwest 15th Street, where he abruptly exited the car and fled on foot.
Jump into the river
Rather than surrender, the suspect ran toward the banks of the Oklahoma River and jumped in. He remained in the water for more than ten minutes, during which a police‑operated drone tracked his movements downstream.
Using the drone’s live feed, officers positioned units along the riverbank and coordinated a safe apprehension. The suspect was retrieved from the water without injury and taken into custody.
Police response and community impact
Chief of Police John Cameron praised the quick coordination between patrol officers, the drone team, and river‑bank units, noting that the technology helped prevent a potentially dangerous situation from escalating. “Our officers acted decisively, and the use of aerial assets ensured the suspect could be located and detained safely,” Cameron said.
The incident underscores the importance of securing delivery vehicles and remaining vigilant in high‑traffic areas. Local businesses and residents are reminded to lock vehicles and report any suspicious activity promptly.
Legal proceedings
The suspect now faces charges of motor vehicle theft, fleeing police, and unlawful entry into a public waterway. He will appear before an Oklahoma County judge later this week.
Authorities continue to investigate whether the theft was part of a larger pattern of delivery‑vehicle crimes in the city. Residents are encouraged to stay informed about safety measures and to support law‑enforcement efforts that keep neighborhoods secure.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
