Canutillo, Texas — A routine traffic stop in West Texas quickly escalated into a police pursuit after a 21-year-old driver allegedly sped away from deputies before crashing his vehicle and attempting to flee on foot, according to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office.
Authorities said the suspect, Kevin Guerrero, was later taken into custody, with body camera footage capturing him repeatedly asking deputies to let him call his mother after his arrest.
Traffic Stop Turned Into Police Pursuit
According to the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, deputies stopped a vehicle at approximately 2:05 a.m. Sunday in the 7300 block of Doniphan Drive in Canutillo, just north of El Paso.
Investigators said the vehicle was pulled over because it was displaying an obscured license plate.
During the initial encounter, body camera footage shows the driver speaking with deputies before the situation suddenly changed. According to the video, the driver appeared to tell an officer:
“I’m not under the influence, you wanna do a DWI?”
Moments later, the deputy turned away from the vehicle before reportedly hearing the engine rev.
“Hey, hey,” the deputy said before asking in Spanish, “you’re leaving?”
Authorities say the driver then accelerated away from the traffic stop.
Deputies Found Crashed Vehicle in Desert Area
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies pursued the fleeing vehicle before locating it crashed and abandoned in a desert lot. Investigators said the suspect exited the vehicle carrying a bag and attempted to escape on foot.
Body camera footage released by the sheriff’s office shows deputies chasing the suspect as patrol vehicle sirens can be heard in the background.
At one point during the pursuit, an officer warned:
“You’re gonna get Tased!”
The chase ended shortly afterward when deputies caught up with the suspect and placed him in handcuffs.
Suspect Repeatedly Asked to Call His Mother
As deputies detained the suspect, body camera footage captured him repeatedly pleading with officers.
“Let me call my mom.”
According to authorities, the man was identified as Kevin Guerrero, 21.
Following his arrest, Guerrero was booked into the El Paso County Detention Facility. Officials said his total bond was set at $37,500.
Multiple Charges Filed
The El Paso County Sheriff’s Office said Guerrero has been charged with:
- Evading arrest or detention with a vehicle
- Evading arrest or detention
- Unlawful carrying of a weapon
Authorities have not released additional details regarding the weapon charge or whether anyone was injured during the pursuit.
The investigation remains ongoing, and additional information could be released as the case proceeds through the court system.
The allegations against Guerrero are based on information provided by law enforcement. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
What are your thoughts on this incident? Do you think fleeing a routine traffic stop should result in tougher penalties? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
