Driver In Stolen Car Crashes Into Pole Following Pursuit: Cops

DANVILLE, CA — An Oakland man in a stolen car was arrested in Danville after leading officers on a brief pursuit Monday morning, officials with the Danville Police Department said. Just after 9 a.m., the city's Automated License Plate Recognition system alerted police to the stolen car spotted in the area of Crow Canyon and Camino Tassajara. An officer found the car a short time later.

The driver, who allegedly led police on a pursuit, lost control and hit a power pole on Camino Tassajara. The driver, later identified as 24-year-old Michael Whitecadena of Oakland, reportedly ran from the crash scene and was arrested after a brief foot chase. His 17-year-old passenger was released to family members, according to police.

Authorities said Whitecadena faces several felony charges and was booked into the Martinez Detention Facility after being medically cleared at Contra Costa Regional Medical Center.

The crash left downed power lines in the road. Camino Tassajara was closed in both directions near the Dublin border for several hours, authorities said. PG&E crews responded to repair the pole.

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