California Fugitive Arrested In West Texas After High Speed Chase

WINTERS, TX –– After escaping California, a violent suspect was apprehended in West Texas early Tuesday morning.

According to the Runnels County Sheriff Office, 24-year-old Israel Valdivia was on the run after brutally stabbing an elderly victim in San Diego.

At approximately 6:00 a.m.on Tuesday, Valdivia allegedly stole a vehicle from a 7/11 in Abilene and drove to Winters.

While in Winters, Valdivia allegedly tried to run over a man who was walking down Main Street. The victim contacted the police and a subsequent chase ensued.

During the chase, Valdivia exceeded speeds of 100 mph before losing control on Hwy 67 and driving across a ditch, going through a fence, and stopping in a field on County Road 402 & Hwy 67 in Runnels County.

Valdivia was apprehended and booked into the Taylor County Jail. He was charged with unauthorized use of a motor vehicle and evading arrest. 

Valdivia will face local charges before being extradited to California for an attempted murder charge.