Wanted Suspect Captured After Swimming Into Ocean to Escape Police
LOS ANGELES, California — A man wanted on felony charges was taken into custody Thursday morning after allegedly attempting to evade police by swimming into the Pacific Ocean near Will Rogers State Beach, prompting a lengthy response involving the Los Angeles Police Department, Los Angeles County lifeguards, and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department.
According to the LAPD, officers were attempting to apprehend the suspect around 7:15 a.m. near Pacific Coast Highway and Sunset Boulevard when he fled on foot toward Will Rogers State Beach. Authorities said the man ran past a lifeguard tower before entering the ocean in an apparent attempt to escape.
The suspect, who was wanted on an outstanding felony warrant for assault with a deadly weapon and felony vandalism, swam roughly 100 yards offshore and remained in the water for approximately 90 minutes.
Witnesses watched as lifeguards on paddleboards and rescue personnel monitored the man while he treaded water. Authorities did not immediately approach him as they worked to safely coordinate the rescue and arrest.
Eventually, lifeguards and rescue crews entered the water, placing flotation devices on the suspect before assisting him onto a rescue boat. The Marina del Rey Sheriff’s Department assisted in taking the man into custody without further incident.
Police have not released the suspect’s identity. No injuries were reported, and authorities have not announced any additional charges stemming from the incident.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Verified: The LAPD confirmed the suspect fled into the Pacific Ocean while officers attempted to serve a felony warrant. The warrant was related to assault with a deadly weapon and felony vandalism. The Marina del Rey Sheriff’s Department and Los Angeles County lifeguards assisted in safely taking the suspect into custody.
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