Spooner chase ends in arrest, 3 vehicles damaged

A South Lake Tahoe man on Wednesday morning led Nevada Highway Patrol officers on a high-speed chase over Spooner Summit that ended with the driver crashing and going to jail.

Jesus Herrarea-Casas was arrested on charges of eluding police, reckless driving, disregard for traffic control devices, speeding, and driving without a valid license. He may also be charged with driving under the influence pending test results.

Troopers tried to stop Herrarea-Casas about 7am April 26 west of Spooner Summit. However, he continued east on Highway 50 toward Carson City. 

“The speeds reached dangerous levels and the driver’s actions were extremely dangerous to the public. Spike strips were deployed half way down Spooner and several of the vehicles tires were punctured,” troopers said in a statement. “Despite having flat tires, the vehicle continued and headed north down Carson Street. “Nevada Highway Patrol troopers forced the vehicle to crash to end the danger to the public.”

Two NHP vehicles were damaged during the incident. 

— Lake Tahoe News staff report