Theft Suspects Lead Police on Wild Car Chase Near Yakima

A 20-year-old and 23-year-old are in the Yakima County Jail after a wild weekend chase that led officers at speeds well over 80-90 mph throughout Yakima County.

Saturday morning, Moxee Police responded to a call around 5am about the theft of a generator from the back of a truck.  Police spotted the suspect vehicle about a block from the home, and after attempting to pull them over, the suspects sped away.

20-year-old Austin Butler and 23-year-old Daniel Munson led officers on a high-speed chase through Terrace Heights, onto Interstate 82, and eventually on State Route 12 towards Gleed. The suspects were able to avoid spike strips twice, but then their car crashed through a fence near the intersection with the Old Naches Highway.

The suspects fled, one was later caught hiding in a field, the other was captured after a K-9 unit also found him nearby. One of the suspects threatened and assaulted arresting officers, and also threatened to kill himself with a knife.

The list of charges pending against the two include: Eluding, 3rd Degree Assault, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, meth possession and resisting arrest. They're also identified as being connected to a series of vehicle and property thefts in recent weeks.

Selah Police and the Washington State Patrol as well as Yakima Police assisted in the chase and arrests.