Courageous Officer's Sacrifice Leads to Suspect's Arrest: Oakley Police Demonstrate Unwavering Commitment to Public Safety

Oct 14, 2024 at 4:04 AM

Heroic Officer Injured in Daring Pursuit: Oakley Police Apprehend Dangerous Suspect

In a dramatic turn of events, an Oakley police officer was injured while responding to a report of a stolen vehicle. The incident unfolded on a Saturday evening, as officers engaged in a high-speed chase to apprehend the suspected thief. Despite the risks, the officers displayed unwavering courage and determination, ultimately leading to the arrest of the suspect.

Putting Public Safety First: Oakley Police's Relentless Pursuit of Justice

Stolen Car Sparks Intense Chase

The chaotic scene began around 6:10 p.m. on East Cypress Road, where Oakley police officers were on the lookout for a reported stolen vehicle. Spotting the car, allegedly driven by 29-year-old Devon Singleton, the officers sprang into action, determined to apprehend the suspect. Singleton, disregarding the officers' commands, sped down Jersey Island Road, leading the pursuit.In a desperate attempt to slow down the fleeing vehicle, the officers deployed spike strips, but Singleton continued to drive "as fast as his deflating tires would allow him to go," according to the police report. With the suspect's reckless disregard for public safety, the officers knew they had to act quickly to prevent further harm.

Heroic Sergeant Puts Himself in Harm's Way

Two officers, including a sergeant, positioned themselves at the intersection of East Cypress Road and Knightsen Avenue, near a Valero gas station. Recognizing the potential danger to the patrons at the gas station, the sergeant strategically placed himself between the gas station and the route Singleton was taking, ready to confront the suspect.As Singleton approached the intersection, he crashed head-on into the sergeant's police car. The impact momentarily trapped the officer, but he was able to exit his vehicle and apprehend the Antioch resident. The sergeant was immediately transported to a local hospital, where he was treated for his injuries and later released.

Commendation and Community Support

Oakley Police Chief Paul Beard expressed his gratitude for the sergeant's bravery and the actions of the entire police team. "I am very grateful our sergeant will seemingly fully recover from this collision," Beard said. "I appreciate my team of officers last night as they did what they so commonly do- take a stand against criminals."The chief also acknowledged the outpouring of support from the community, stating, "It is my understanding many patrons of the gas station and witnesses to this event personally checked on our sergeant last night to see if he was ok. I cannot say how much I appreciate these gestures and displays of concern- thank you Oakley!"

Suspect Apprehended and Charged

Singleton, the suspected car thief, was life-flighted to a hospital for his injuries sustained in the crash. After receiving medical attention, he was arrested and booked into jail, facing charges of assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, possession of a stolen vehicle, and felony evading.The female passenger in the stolen vehicle was also taken to the hospital for her injuries, though her condition and potential charges were not immediately known.

Additional Arrest in the Same Incident

In a separate incident during the same event, Oakley police made another arrest. As officers were clearing the scene, a driver attempted to drive on the shoulder of the road and through a cone pattern. When officers stopped the driver, they determined that the individual was driving while impaired and promptly arrested them.The Oakley Police Department's swift and decisive actions, coupled with the community's support, demonstrate their unwavering commitment to public safety and their determination to hold criminals accountable. This incident serves as a testament to the bravery and professionalism of the Oakley police force, who put their lives on the line to protect the citizens they serve.