Driver in Stolen SUV Crashes Into Power Lines

A high-speed pursuit between the California Highway Patrol and the driver of a stolen Chevy Silverado ended Thursday morning when the driver ran across a spike strip, set up by the CHP, and crashed into a power pole near the Gilroy outlets, according to an article by the Silicon Valley Mercury News.

The fallen power lines surrounded the truck, subsequently trapping the driver, identified as 40-year-old Lydia Arredando, as firefighters waited for Pacific Gas and Electric Co. to shut down the power. The fallen wires also created a small grassfire that was contained by responding firefighters.

Arredando was later flown by helicopter to Regional Medical Center in San Jose. There were two other passengers in the car, a male and female, who were arrested at the scene, with one reportedly being taken to Regional Medical with minor injuries. 

Around 6:30 a.m. Thursday, the CHP received the call about the stolen vehicle, taken from the Los Banos area and later spotted on Highway 152 near Casa De Fruta by a CHP officer.

After a vain attempt to pull over the Silverado, a high-speed chase ensued  for about 10 miles with Arredando driving at speeds between 90-100 mph, until she finally drove the vehicle over one of two spike strips and crashed into the power pole.

Arredando was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence, possession of a stolen vehicle and evading police, the Mercury reported.