Suspected Car Thief Treed By Cops In Azusa

AZUSA, CA —Police chased a suspect up a tree, where he remained for several hours, refusing to come down. The man, who allegedly stole a car Monday afternoon, remained surrounded by officers and deputies before he finally descended and was ultimately placed under arrest, authorities say.

Police discovered a man driving a stolen vehicle at approximately 3:30 p.m. in Ontario. A pursuit ensued, and the driver headed west on the Foothill (210) Freeway before exiting in the Azusa area.

Officers monitored from afar while the suspect parked the car in a residential neighborhood and took off on foot, according to authorities.

The suspect climbed into a tall tree at the corner of Payson Street and Rockvale Avenue where he stayed as officers arrived and attempted to get him to come down.

The unidentified suspect remained in his perch for about 2 1/2 hours before being taken into custody, according to the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department.