Rafael Ortiz Jr., 42, of Fresno, who is accused of stealing a city of Fresno vehicle, was arrested Wednesday, May 28, 2025, in Madera County after a pursuit that sparked small fires and ended with a crash. (Madera County SO)
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A man suspected of stealing a city of Fresno vehicle led authorities on a dangerous pursuit Wednesday evening that ended in Madera County with his arrest and roadside fires, the Madera County Sherriff’s Office said in a statement.
The chase began around 6:40 p.m. when the Madera County deputies joined Fresno County deputies and the California Highway Patrol in pursuing the stolen vehicle, which had entered Madera County while dragging a metal object that sparked fires along the roadside.
According to authorities, the suspect later identified as Rafael Ortiz Jr., 42, of Fresno, attempted to hit a deputy with the vehicle and eventually collided with a patrol car.
The pursuit ended when Ortiz allegedly tried to crash through a fence near Harper Boulevard, where deputies took him into custody without further incident.
A small fire ignited at the scene but was quickly extinguished, authorities said.
Ortiz was booked into Madera County Jail on multiple felony charges, including assault with a deadly weapon, possession of a stolen vehicle, reckless evading, and vandalism.
Additional charges are expected from Fresno County, police said.
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