AVONDALE, AZ — A person is in custody after an APS truck was reportedly carjacked in the West Valley Wednesday morning.
The Arizona Department of Public Safety says the vehicle was taken near Loop 101 and Thomas Road just before 5 a.m.
DPS says the suspect's car had broken down in the northbound lanes of Loop 101.
An APS vehicle was trying to be a good Samaritan and stopped to help the suspect. But the suspect pulled a gun on the APS worker and took their truck.
An ABC15 crew witnessed the truck run a red light, being closely followed by DPS near 107th Avenue and Buckeye Road.
Air15 video shows where the suspect abandoned the vehicle near 107th Avenue and Lower Buckeye. The suspect left the vehicle in a canal and fled on foot.
While on foot, DPS says the suspect entered a home with a family of four inside, including two children.
The male homeowner reportedly was able to talk the suspect into leaving the home without anyone being hurt.
The suspect reportedly then scaled multiple fences and went through yards in that area before police were able to take the suspect into custody just before 7:30 a.m.
The suspect has only been identified as a 24-year-old male.
Officials did confirm he has an extensive criminal history, including drug convictions, possession, and assault, and the initial car the suspect was in, was also stolen.
Charges have not been filed, but DPS officials say he will likely face charges of grand theft, trespassing, assault, and endangerment.
DPS officials say it's "nothing short of a miracle" that no one was hurt during this pursuit.
APS released the following statement after the incident:
"We are aware of the incident this morning involving an APS employee and work vehicle. What began as our employee stopping to help a stranded motorist, turned into a dangerous situation when the employee was threatened and the vehicle was taken. Our top concern is with our employee and providing support. We are thankful he was not physically injured. We want to acknowledge the hard work of law enforcement in bringing this to an end. Please contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety for additional details as this is an ongoing investigation."
The case remains under investigation.
