Fresno County ag crimes detectives arrested 40-year-old James Garcia after a wild series of events that included the suspect reaching speeds of 100 mph as he tried to elude capture on Monday afternoon.

Garcia, of Fresno, was booked into Fresno County Jail on multiple charges, including burglary, auto theft, grand theft, hit and run, and evading police, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office reported on Instagram.

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Suspect Rammed Vehicle Into Property Owner’s Vehicle

Around 12:30 p.m. on Monday, a property owner observed Garcia attempting to steal items from his ranch near Central and Valentine Avenues. Garcia then reportedly rammed his vehicle into the owner’s vehicle upon confrontation, disabling his own in the process. Garcia fled the scene on foot as deputies responded.

Shortly after, Garcia allegedly stole a white pickup truck from a nearby produce packing house.

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The pursuit escalated with Garcia driving recklessly, reaching speeds of up to 100 mph, the sheriff’s office said.

The Fresno County Sheriff’s helicopter, EAGLE One, tracked Garcia until he arrived at Adams Market at the intersection of S. Cedar and E. Adams Avenues, where he tried to hide inside the store.

Responding patrol deputies apprehended Garcia without further incident.

The investigation led detectives back to Garcia’s abandoned vehicle, where stolen items from previous ag-related burglaries were discovered.

Got a Tip?

Anyone with information related to this case is asked to contact the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office at (559) 600-3111 or Crime Stoppers at (559) 498-7867. Tipsters can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward by referencing case No. 24-7516.

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