UPDATE: Auto Theft Suspect Blamed In Lake Elsinore Crash

APRIL 9 UPDATE AT 9:30 A.M. Heavy police activity in Lake Elsinore Monday night was the result of a search for a suspect wanted for allegedly stealing a car in Perris and then crashing it locally.

The pursuit began in Lake Elsinore around 7:51 p.m. at Riverside Drive and Lincoln Street, according to Cpl. Angel Ramos of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

Police attempted to pull over a male suspect believed to be driving a stolen Honda Civic out of Perris, Ramos said.

“The suspected failed to stop and a short pursuit ensued,” according to the corporal.

The suspect crashed into two vehicles at Riverside Drive and Lash Street, and then fled the scene on foot, Ramos continued. As of Tuesday morning, the suspect has not been located, the corporal said.

A suspect description has not been released by police.

A female passenger was found in the alleged stolen vehicle and was detained but later released, Ramos said.

There were no injuries reported in the crash.

An active investigation continues although the heavy police presence in the area has ended.

Witnesses told Patch there were traffic delays as deputies searched Monday night.